Category Archives: real estate

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Wednesday’s news-Nov 26

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Please welcome our newest Sponsor: Solar Solution/Tax Deduction for Home Solar/Screening of foreigners enhanced/PKK wins Wellness Awards/Injured Kui Buri elephant rescued/Southern floods submerge 10 provinces/Hat Yai zone submerged ‘for weeks’/Families smash through roofs/Navy Deploys Carrier to Hat Yai/Hat Yai helicopter crash/Hat Yai Property Market Drenched/Hat Yai man shoots at rescuers/Flood victims walk on overhead wires/Hat Yai floods may force SEA Games move/

  • ECONOMY: Biggest trade deficit since 2023/Floods, slow recovery for car industry
  • TOURISM: Ferry Blunder Sends Tourists’ Bags Overboard/Foreign tourist arrivals down/Flooding a blow to tourism/Ministry targets high-potential markets/Thailand Medical Tourism Market
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Still unprepared for Climate Change/Solar Sector Faces Trade Uncertainty/Toyota Motor Thailand solar projects/First Climate Change Act proposed to Cabinet/Thailand adjusts EV policy
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS 

Please welcome our newest Sponsor:

Solar Solution

As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency.

Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence.

With comprehensive aftercare, including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year 10 and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.

Choose Solar Solution Ltd. as your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Contacts: Clark mcGinley, sales and service manager: Phone & WhatsApp +66 80-825-2413, E mail sales.service@solarsolutionltd.com; Clive Oggier, Director, Mail: clive@solarsolutionltd.com, Website, Facebook, Mobile: +66640528172, Line ID: solarsolutionltd, WhatApps: solarsolutionltd, WeChat: solarsolutionltd, Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/clive-oggier/.

Solar Solution – Your Turnkey Energy Provider

As Hua Hin’s longest-running solar installer serving the expat community, we’ve built our reputation on something rare in Thailand: we’re still here, and so are our 2,000+ customers. We’re not just installing solar systems – we’re your long-term partner in achieving true energy self-sufficiency. Our fully employed local team (never subcontractors) designs every system bespoke to your home and lifestyle, sources premium components directly from trusted Thai suppliers for unbeatable value, then walks alongside you through every stage of your journey to energy independence. With comprehensive aftercare including maintenance contracts, responsive call-out service, and 24/7 support through our Line official store, we ensure your path to self-sufficiency is smooth from day one through year ten and beyond. We speak your language, understand expat needs, and provide the hands-on guidance that turns a solar installation into lasting energy freedom.
Choose Solar Solution Ltd:,your committed partner in the journey to self-sufficiency, for the long haul. Call Clark today at +66 80825 2413, or Clive at +66640528172.

Cabinet Approves Tax Deduction for Home Solar Systems

The Cabinet has approved a tax deduction for households installing solar rooftop systems, allowing individuals to claim up to 200,000 baht per year, including VAT. The measure aims to encourage clean energy adoption in residential areas and will be effective from the date of publication in the Royal Gazette until December 2028.

The tax deduction covers the total cost of installing solar rooftop systems, providing an immediate financial incentive for homeowners. Experts say this could significantly increase solar adoption rates and reduce household electricity costs over time. Consumers are encouraged to plan installations before the scheme expires in 2028 to maximize benefits. Continued …

Screening of foreigners entering or leaving Thailand enhanced

Immigration announced yesterday enhanced screening and verification measures for all foreign nationals entering and exiting Thailand. The initiative applies across all international airports and border checkpoints nationwide to prevent individuals disguising themselves as tourists from committing crimes or engaging in unlawful activities.

Police Major Gen. Jaturapat Bhiromkaew, deputy spokesperson, stated that the measures are preventive and applied equally to all nationalities, without targeting any specific group. Screening focuses on identifying high-risk behaviors, such as unusually frequent entries and exits, misuse of visas, or suspicious information from INTERPO and security intelligence agencies. Continued …

Prachuap Khiri Khan wins 7 Wellness Model Awards

The Department of Tourism has designated Prachuap Khiri Khan as a “model health tourism city,” reflecting the readiness of Thai entrepreneurs and their efforts to elevate them to international standards. The department held an awards ceremony Monday for health tourism entrepreneurs, “Living in Prachuap Khiri Khan: A Holistic Wellness Showcase 2025,” at the Loligo Resort Hotel, Hua Hin.

The department is promoting Prachuap Khiri Khan Province’s potential as a “Wellness City” model, encompassing five key dimensions. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of the tourist area, support sustainable growth in the tourism industry, and enhance Thailand’s image as an international standard wellness tourism destination. Continued …

Drone-assisted search rescues injured Kui Buri elephant

A rescue operation in Kui Buri National Park, Prachuap Khiri Khan, successfully located and treated an injured male wild elephant after three days of searching.

Park officials confirmed that the animal, which had a visible wound on its hind leg and signs of diarrhea, was found Monday evening using a drone after earlier searches failed to locate it. Veterinary teams administered a tranquillizer and provided urgent medical treatment, allowing the elephant to stand and walk again later that night. Continued …

Southern floods submerge 10 provinces, trade and tourism losses up to 1.5 billion baht

Flooding continues to spread across the south, with Hat Yai district in Songkhla among the worst affected. Heavy rainfall has expanded flood-hit areas further.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reported on Monday that flooding was affecting 10 provinces — Surat Thani, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Phatthalung, Satun, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat — covering 92 districts, 581 subdistricts, and 4,146 villages. Continued …

Hat Yai zone submerged ‘for weeks’

Hat Yai continues to face severe flooding, with experts warning that the city’s economic zone will remain submerged at least until mid-December.

Assoc Prof. Seree Supratid, director of the Climate Change and Disaster Center at Rangsit University and vice president of the National Disaster Warning Council Foundation, said yesterday that despite falling water levels upstream in Sadao district, downstream flows will increase before reaching the city, exacerbating the flooding. Continued …

Families smash through roofs in dramatic escape from Hat Yai floodwaters

A family of five, including elderly women, smashed through the roof of their house, in flood-hit Hat Yai in Songkhla, to escape rapidly rising floodwaters. They waved cloths and shouted for help until rescue workers in nearby boats noticed them and came to their rescue. All five residents were successfully taken to safety. With their food and fruit nearby, it was unclear how many days they had been living on the roof. (Thai PBS)

Navy Deploys Flagship and Helicopters for Hat Yai Flood Relief

The Royal Thai Navy has deployed naval assets, including the aircraft carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet and two helicopters, to support urgent flood relief operations in Hat Yai and wider southern provinces affected by severe flooding.

Navy spokesman Rear Admiral Parash Rattanachaipan confirmed yesterday that personnel, medical teams, emergency supplies, field kitchens, and drinking water are being mobilized to assist communities struggling with rising floodwaters. The deployment aims to provide immediate support to stranded residents, deliver essential goods, and reinforce rescue operations in areas hit hardest by the disaster. Continued …

Chaos in Hat Yai floods as reports of helicopter crash spark confusion

A helicopter in a flood rescue mission allegedly crashed today near Sikarin Hospital in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province. Local police confirmed receiving a report about the accident, while another government agency dismissed the claim as fake news.

The incident reportedly occurred at around 11 am today. Local journalists stated that the helicopter went down near the hospital while supporting rescue efforts for residents affected by the severe flooding. Officials are now entering the area to verify the situation and provide assistance. Continued …

Hat Yai Property Market Drenched: Floods Force Major Design Overhaul

The massive “great flood,” the most severe in a quarter-century, has inflicted extensive damage on the Hat Yai real estate market. Projects located in low-lying areas were particularly affected, triggering a sharp market downturn.

Crucially, a significant cohort of buyers from the three deep southern border provinces — Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat — have deferred property purchases pending a full re-evaluation of flood risk. Continued …

Hat Yai man fires 3 shots to threaten rescuers over delayed rescue

A Thai man stranded in severe flooding in Hat Yai, Songkhla province, fired three shots into the air to threaten rescuers on jet skis over what he believed was a delayed rescue.

One of the rescuers, from Surat Thani province, posted about the incident urging residents to remain calm. “Hat Yai locals, please calm down. I can’t help everyone at once, but it doesn’t mean I don’t want to help. I had 300 food boxes but they ran out after visiting three houses because so many people were inside. I was shocked to hear gunshots behind me.” Continued …

Flood victims walk on overhead wires to escape water

A Thai woman, trapped by flooding in Hat Yai district, Songkhla, took to Facebook to seek help, sharing videos of her neighbors walking dangerously on communication wires in an attempt to reach safer ground.

In the caption, she wrote: “Please have mercy on us. Many lives are still waiting for hope to get out of here. The water has reached the second floor. Food and drinking water are running out. Please help. I can’t contact any rescue unit. We are on Phonphichai Road in front of Phutthikaram Temple or Plak Krim Nai Temple.” Continued …

Hat Yai inundation may force SEA Games events to Bangkok, Chon Buri

Thailand is preparing contingency plans and assessing conditions on a daily basis in case the worsening flood crisis in Hat Yai does not improve, which could necessitate the relocation to Bangkok and Chon Buri of all 10 SEA Games sports competitions scheduled to be held there.

With the games due to start on Dec. 9, Songkhla is being ravaged by one of the worst floods in decades, raising concerns over its ability to host the first major international sporting event in the province, particularly regarding the preparedness of each venue. Continued …

Thailand posts biggest trade deficit since 2023

A surge in imports from China in October pushed Thailand’s trade deficit to the biggest since early 2023, a sign of how US President Donald Trump’s tariffs have warped trade patterns in Asia.

The value of inbound shipments of capital goods and raw materials from China shot up 34% from the same month last year to US$9.8 billion, the highest level this year. Meanwhile, exports to the US rose 33% to $6.7 billion, driven by computers and parts, machinery, and steel, according to data released yesterday by the Ministry of Commerce. Continued …

Floods, slow recovery add to woes of car industry

Thailand’s automotive industry faces mounting challenges, as severe floods in the south threaten to disrupt domestic car sales and delay economic recovery during the remainder of this year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The floods, coupled with an economic slowdown, are expected to force revisions to the industry’s outlook for the year. Despite the risks, the Automotive Industry Club is maintaining its 2025 production target of 1.45 million vehicles, comprising 950,000 for export and 500,000 for the domestic market. Continued … 

Koh Tao–Samui Ferry Blunder Sends Tourists’ Bags Overboard

A tourist’s dream holiday took a turn when her luggage, along with that of several other passengers, was swept out to sea during a ferry trip in Thailand. Served by what she described as an “incompetent” crew, Alice Zamparelli witnessed her belongings floating away during a journey from Koh Tao to Koh Samui.

The incident occurred due to rough sea conditions and allegedly unsecured bags on the upper deck of the ferry. Zamparelli lamented the loss on social media, claiming she recovered 50,000 Thai baht (around £1,100) through persistent negotiation. Unfortunately, some passengers had a different outcome, missing flights and receiving no compensation, according to reports. Continued …

Foreign tourist arrivals down 7.18%

Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals from Jan. 1 to Nov. 23 fell 7.18% from the same period a year earlier, the Tourism and Sports Ministry reported yesterday.

There were 28.97 million foreign visitors over the period, it said. Malaysia was the largest source market with 4.13 million visitors, followed by China with 4.02 million. Continued …

Southern flooding a blow to tourism

Tourism revenue in Songkhla is expected to contract by at least 8.5% this month as the province grapples with the most severe floods in more than a decade, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The number of Malaysian tourists to the province could drop by as much as 18% in December if the floods last longer than a week, TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said yesterday. Continued …

Tourism Ministry targets high-potential markets, including China, Saudi Arabia, and Russia

Tourism and Sports Minister Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn announced that the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to open a new office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, soon, aiming to expand the growing Saudi tourist market. Since the restoration of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Saudi Arabia, Saudi tourist arrivals to Thailand have surged.

In 2024, the number of Saudi visitors to Thailand reached 228,032, a 28% increase from the previous year, and is expected to grow 8% this year, despite the challenges of the Iran-Israel war impacting the forecasted growth of 20%. Continued …

Thailand Medical Tourism Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends, Industry Outlook

Thailand’s medical tourism sector continues to evolve as a leading global destination, combining exceptional healthcare standards with hospitality excellence. The country’s specialization in elective procedures, particularly cosmetic surgery and gender-affirming care, has established its international reputation.

With experienced surgeons trained in Western countries working within JCI-accredited hospitals equipped with advanced technology, Thailand offers attractive pricing that remains 30% to 70% lower than Western markets, while maintaining high procedural success rates. Continued …

Hat Yai floods show Thailand is still unprepared for Climate Change

Recent severe flooding in Hat Yai is yet another wake-up call that Thailand remains unprepared to cope with climate change. This is not the first time the south has been devastated – similar floods struck Hat Yai in 2000 and 2010, and other regions have suffered from extreme weather. Yet, despite these warnings, preparedness remains inadequate.

The latest deluge dumped 635 millimeters of rain in three days, submerging central Hat Yai, stranding thousands of residents and tourists, and once again we saw how extreme weather is becoming more frequent and damaging. Continued …

Thailand’s Solar Sector Faces Trade Uncertainty Amid US Suspension

Thailand’s solar and renewable energy sector is facing fresh uncertainty following an announcement from the country’s Foreign Ministry that the United States had temporarily suspended negotiations on a critical trade framework deal. Initially, the U.S. linked the suspension to Thailand’s commitment to a truce with Cambodia, demonstrating how geopolitical issues unrelated to energy can quickly impact the renewable energy supply chain.

Although the Thai government later clarified that trade talks are expected to continue separately from the Cambodia border matter, the initial halt highlights the vulnerability of international trade agreements that currently support Southeast Asia’s manufacturing economy. Continued …

Toyota Motor Thailand solar projects delivered

Global Power Synergy Public Co.’s (GPSC) subsidiary, Combined Heat and Power Producing Co. (CHPP), has recently delivered two key renewable energy projects for Toyota Motor Thailand. The projects, with a combined installed capacity of 21 megawatts, reflect GPSC’s strategic push into clean energy solutions for the industrial sector.

The initiatives comprise an 18-megawatt solar farm at the Toyota Ban Pho plant in Chachoengsao province and a 3.77-megawatt solar rooftop installation at the Toyota Samrong plant in Samut Prakan province. Continued …

Thailand pushes ahead: First Climate Change Act proposed to Cabinet

Thailand is approaching a significant milestone in tackling the global climate crisis. The Department of Climate Change and Environment (DCCE), under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), was set to propose the draft Climate Change Act to the Cabinet yesterday.

This legislation marks Thailand’s first-ever climate law and is being closely watched by the business sector, legal experts, and the public. The draft bill establishes a complete system, covering regulatory mechanisms, measurement reporting verification (MRV), the carbon market, disaster adaptation measures, protection for vulnerable groups, and climate finance management. Continued …

Thailand adjusts EV policy to head off supply glut

Thailand has made changes to its electric vehicle incentive policy in order to encourage exports and head off a supply glut at home, which could have an impact on the overall car market, the Board of Investment said yesterday.

Every EV produced for export will now count as 1.5 units toward a manufacturer’s local production obligations, the agency said. “This is to incentivize automakers to increase exports and prevent domestic market oversupply,” it said. Continued …

  • Thailand, Japan and South Korea Target Yakuza Drug Network – Continued …
  • Chinese Suspect Arrested Over Illicit Vape Production in Bangkok – Continued …

US to slap big surcharge on foreign visitors to national parks

Foreign tourists visiting US national parks, including the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone, will now pay a hefty surcharge, the Trump administration announced yesterday. The Department of the Interior, which operates the renowned US national parks, said that starting in 2026 visitors from abroad will have to pay $100 on top of the individual park fee to enter 11 of the most popular destinations in the system. Continued … 

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exports, hua hin, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, wildlife tourism

Tuesday’s news-Nov 25

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Queen Sirikit memorial event/Amateur Charity Golf Classic/Connecting Western Seaboard dinner/Popular fresh vegetables found contaminated/Southern flood crisis deepens/Desperate calls for help in flooded Hat Yai/Floods halt trains, cut highways/Flooded hospitals in need of help/Forest Ranger Dies After Elephant Attack/First Pacemaker Implant in a Cat

  • ECONOMY: Thai Property Transfers Plunge/Home seizures spike/Chamber submits economic growth plan/October exports rise 5.7%/Strategies to counter US tariffs
  • TOURISM: Malaysians to cancel trips to Thailand
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Southeast Asia’s endangered traditional languages
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Chiang Rai Leads the Way
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS 

Queen Sirikit memorial event to be held in Hua Hin on Dec 1

Preparations are underway for an event titled “Paying Tribute with Loyal Hearts to Her Majesty the Queen Mother”, to be held on Dec. 1 from 3 pm to 7 pm, at Rajabhakti Park in Hua Hin.

The event aims to express deep condolences and pay respects, as well as to remember the royal benevolence of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother. The Prime Minister’s Office has called on all government offices, state enterprises, government agencies, and educational institutions throughout the country to organize activities to express mourning. Continued …

Popular fresh vegetables found contaminated with multiple parasites

A study titled “Survey of Intestinal Parasite Contamination in Fresh Vegetables in Bangkok, Thailand”, conducted by Uthaitip Boonkasem of the School of Health Science at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, and colleagues, has revealed concerning levels of parasitic contamination in commonly consumed fresh vegetables.

The research examined the prevalence of intestinal parasites in fresh produce collected from both local and urban markets across Bangkok. Samples were taken between November and December 2022 and involved 300 specimens from 15 vegetable varieties, analyzed using a sedimentation technique. Continued …

Southern flood crisis deepens: after Hat Yai, Narathiwat now submerged

Severe flooding has struck nine districts in Narathiwat, affecting more than 47,000 households, with one death reported. Authorities have deployed police and district officials to wade through dangerous 2-meter-deep currents to rescue stranded residents.

Authorities today reported that rainfall continues to blanket all 13 districts of Narathiwat, causing water levels to rise rapidly. Three major rivers — the Bang Nara River and the Saiburi River — have overflowed their banks, inundating large areas. The Sungai Kolok River remains below bank level for now, but water levels are rising steadily. Continued …

Desperate calls for help echo in flooded Hat Yai

Screams for help from flood-stricken residents filled the air in Hat Yai of this heavily inundated southern border province last night, leading to a complete evacuation order for the entire district. Historically high rainfall and torrents from higher areas near Hat Yai prompted Songkhla Gov. Ratthasart Chidchoo to mandate the total evacuation yesterday.

However, many residents waited in vain for rescue vehicles. Rescue workers urged the government to expedite evacuation efforts, as they were outnumbered by victims in need of assistance. Continued … 

Floods halt trains, cut highways in south

Railway tracks and highways in many southern provinces were blocked by rising, severe flooding yesterday, with persistent rain falling over most of the region.

The State Railway of Thailand said that from yesterday onward it had halted 12 trains and adjusted the routes of four train services in southern provinces. Trains 447 and 448 were diverted to the Surat Thani-Thung Song-Surat Thani route, instead of Surat Thani-Sungai Kolok-Surat Thani. Continued …

Flooded hospitals in need of urgent help

Hospitals in flooded areas of Songkhla Province have pleaded for urgent help to cope with dwindling supplies and a shortage of fuel for their power generators.

Bangkok Hospital Hat Yai, in Hat Yai District, posted a message online pleading for help to move patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) to safer places after its reserve power generator was flooded, causing a complete power shutdown. Continued …

Pioneering Forest Ranger Dies After Elephant Attack

A 45-year-old forest ranger, Bancha Kraisi Baramee, known as “Kru Tu,” was fatally injured by a wild elephant while on duty at Thiku Forest Protection Unit in the Thungyai Naresuan West Wildlife Sanctuary, Kanchanaburi Province, Sunday night.

Kru Tu was a respected figure in wildlife protection and one of the officers involved in the high-profile black panther poaching case in late 2018. He was praised for his dedication, teaching younger rangers and commitment to safeguarding Thailand’s forests. Continued … 

Chula Veterinarians Perform Thailand’s First Pacemaker Implant in a Cat

In a groundbreaking medical milestone, veterinarians from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Veterinary Science have successfully performed Thailand’s first pacemaker implantation in a cat, marking a new era in advanced veterinary cardiology. The procedure, led by Dr. Anusak Kijtawornrat from the Department of Physiology, demonstrates Thailand’s growing capacity in high-precision animal healthcare.

The patient, Pepsi, an eight-year-old domestic shorthair cat, had suffered frequent fainting spells— up to four times daily — caused by severe cardiac arrhythmia. After receiving the pacemaker, she made a full recovery and has since regained her normal strength, appetite, and playful personality. Continued …

Thai Property Transfers Plunge 9.3% in Nine Months

The Thai property market recorded a significant decline in activity over the first nine months of 2025, but the industry is banking on government stimulus to drive a strong recovery in the final quarter, according to the Real Estate Information Center (REIC).

Accumulated residential ownership transfers across Thailand from January to September fell by 9.3% in volume (227,106 units) and 12.4% in value (617.7 billion baht) year-on-year (YoY), reflecting persistently sluggish consumer purchasing power. Continued …

Home seizures spike on bad debt

The state planning unit has raised concerns about mortgage borrowers, as new data shows a significant increase in homes being seized and put up for auction.

According to Onfa Vejjajiva, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), data from the Real Estate Information Center shows in the second quarter of 2025 residential properties seized and put up for auction reached 67,600 units, up 210% year-on-year. Continued …

Thai Chamber of Commerce submits economic growth plan

The Thai Chamber of Commerce submitted a white paper outlining strategies to boost the country’s economic growth to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul yesterday, which it hopes the government will incorporate into a national economic strategy.

TCC Chairman Poj Aramwattananont said the paper includes conclusions from discussions during the 43rd annual seminar of the nation’s chambers of commerce, held at Prince of Songkla University’s Hat Yai campus. The seminar was convened under the theme “Unlocking New Growth: New Potential for National Development”. Continued …

Thai October exports rise 5.7% y/y, below forecast

Customs-cleared exports rose 5.7% in October from a year earlier, the Thai Ministry of Commerce said today, coming in below analysts’ expectations. The reading for October compared with a forecast 6.3% year-on-year increase in a Reuters poll, and followed a jump of 19% in September.

Imports rose 16.3% from a year earlier, much higher than a forecast rise of 7.5%, leading to a trade deficit of $3.44 billion in October, wider than the forecast $0.5 billion deficit. Continued …

ASEAN strategies to counter US tariffs

Is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ready for a new era of trade coercion? The answer will depend on each nation, but ASEAN members want to look unified and pragmatic.

Last week in Melbourne, at the ministerial meeting of the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the 12-member free trade pact, made it clear that the global trading system is being turned upside down due to growing malpractice and a lack of cohesion. Continued … 

Flooding forces Malaysians to cancel trips to Thailand

Inbound trips from Malaysia to southern Thailand are expected to be completely canceled this week due to severe flash floods, particularly in Hat Yai, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said concerns over prolonged flooding, with more than 4,000 Malaysian tourists stranded in hotels and at Hat Yai airport, are likely to result in a full cancellation of trips from the Malaysian market this week. Continued … 

Southeast Asia’s endangered traditional languages

The large number of languages used in Southeast Asia showcases the region’s wide diversity, rich heritage, and colorful history, serving as effective tools in passing down the traditions and customs of ethnic communities. Sadly though, some of these traditional languages face the threat of extinction each year.

According to a university lecturer in Bangkok, “The official language of Thailand is Thai, but we also have around 70 ethnolinguistic groups using languages that belong to the southwestern-Thai family of languages.” Continued …

Chiang Rai Leads the Way in Responsible Travel

Chiang Rai, in the heart of northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle, is redefining what it means to travel responsibly. While other destinations struggle with overcrowding and environmental strain, Chiang Rai has embraced a model of tourism that nurtures both nature and local communities. Visitors can experience ethical elephant sanctuaries, stay in traditional hill tribe villages, explore organic farms, and visit temples powered by renewable energy — all while keeping their environmental footprint minimal.

Chiang Rai has become a sanctuary for Asian elephants, creating opportunities for visitors to engage with these gentle giants responsibly. Traditional rides and performances have been replaced by hands-on experiences such as preparing herbal food, walking alongside the animals, and joining them in river baths. Tourism revenue is channeled into veterinary care, feeding, and forest restoration, demonstrating that wildlife conservation and tourism can go hand in hand. Continued …

Thai Ladyboys Urge Action Against Foreigner’s Unlawful Videos

Thai ladyboys are urging authorities to address actions by a foreign man who recorded them without permission, posing questions about their gender. The man shared these videos on social media, prompting offensive comments. Continued …

  • US man indicted for alleged sex crimes involving minors in Phuket – Continued …
  • Libyan Woman Detained for 897-day Visa Overstay – Continued …
  • Chinese Man Held for Drugs & Paying Smuggler to Enter Thailand – Continued …
  • Chinese Gang Tricks Thai Teen into Stealing From His Mother – Continued …
  • 6 Vietnamese nationals arrested in illegal and unhygienic ice cream factory – Continued …
  • Indian man allegedly hires Pattaya nightclub guards to assault taxi rider – Continued …

Chinese airlines cancel flights on 12 Japan routes as tensions continue to rise

As a political dispute between Beijing and Tokyo continues to inflame relations, Chinese media reports indicate some domestic airlines have canceled flights on 12 of their routes to Japan – including paths to popular tourism destinations Kyoto and Osaka – with analysts predicting cancellations to rise within the week. Continued …

US judge dismisses cases against Trump political foes

A federal judge yesterday dismissed the criminal cases against former FBI director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, dealing a blow to US President Donald Trump’s efforts to prosecute his political opponents. Continued …

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baht, exports, healthcare, hua hin, medical tourism, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand islands, tourism

Monday’s news-Nov 24

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Health insurance visa requirements/Poaching gang arrested/Thailand to Expand Alcohol-Sale Exemptions/Severe Floods Hit 10 Southern Provinces/Why southern floods turned catastrophic/8 electrocuted in floods/Woman Found Alive at Her Funeral/Wild Elephant Kills One, Injures Three/Female inmates said forced into sex services/Thitikul wins LPGA Championship

  • ECONOMY: Economy faces potential recession/Tariff talks turn trickier/Developers demand urgent measures/BoT chief wants weaker baht/Thai–Lao trade hits 24 billion
  • TOURISM: An Independent Tourism Board/Tourism Giants Report Surge in Profit/Emphasis on wellness tourism/Phuket Clamps Down on ‘Visa Runners’/Tourists stranded at Hat Yai airport, hotels
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Weird and wonderful Thai laws/Bangkok among the world’s best shopping cities
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Toxic mines put rivers, people at risk/River test reveals arsenic
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS 

Make sure your health insurance meets Thailand’s visa requirements

If you plan to stay in Thailand for a long time, you must have health insurance that meets the country’s visa rules. This applies to retirement (O-A and O-X) visas and long-term resident (LTR) visas. Each visa type requires a minimum level of coverage for both inpatient and outpatient care, and some also need Covid-19 protection.

Several approved Thai insurance companies offer plans that already meet these requirements, making the visa process easier. Choosing the right policy and checking that it matches your visa type will help prevent any problems or delays with your application and keep you protected during your stay in Thailand. Continued …

Poaching gang arrested in Kaeng Krachan National Park

A poaching gang operating inside Kaeng Krachan National Park has been broken up after a raid by a special task force under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The operation, which targeted a group hunting protected wildlife including gaur, led to the seizure of rifle casings, carcass parts, and dried meat. Officials say the poachers were hired by an external financier.

The raid took place yesterday near the Mae Khamey Bon community in Ban Tha Salao, Yang Namklat Nuea, with officers from the Kaeng Krachan National Park working alongside the Kaeng Krachan district chief’s office and the Kaeng Krachan Special Forces Training Unit. Park chief Mongkol Chaipakdee said the team had been monitoring the poaching group, who had previously been active in the area. Continued …

Thailand to Expand Alcohol-Sale Exemptions Under 2025 Rules

Thailand has broadened exemptions to its alcohol-sale restrictions, confirming that three types of venues may sell alcohol every day, including during regulated hours, under the updated framework introduced by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (No. 2) 2025.

The move forms part of a wider reform of national alcohol regulations. The immediate impact is a clearer legal basis for international airports, licensed entertainment venues, and hotels to continue selling alcohol without hour-based limitations. Continued … 

Severe Floods Hit 10 Southern Provinces, Over 650,000 Affected

Severe flooding across 10 southern provinces has affected 653,568 households, prompting Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) to deploy heavy machinery, boats and emergency teams to support relief efforts.

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DDPM Director-General Teerapat Katchamat confirmed yesterday that the situation remains “worrying,” following his on-site inspection. As of yesterday, floods were impacting 86 districts, 515 subdistricts and 3,620 villages, affecting about 1,475,000 people. Continued …

Why southern floods turned catastrophic as monsoon trough triggers heaviest rainfall in 300 years

The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) says an intense monsoon trough has caused catastrophic flooding across 10 southern provinces, with Hat Yai experiencing its most severe deluge in three centuries.

The Smart Water Operation Center (SWOC) of the Royal Irrigation Department explained that the heavy flooding across the south since Nov. 19 has been caused by the combined influence of a strong monsoon trough and a low-pressure cell covering the southern and lower southern regions. This has triggered heavy to very heavy rainfall from Chumphon downward, resulting in major flooding in 10 provinces. Continued …

8 electrocuted in Nakhon Si Thammarat floods, 1 dead

Flooding in Nakhon Si Thammarat led to a fatal electrical leak while residents were moving belongings to higher ground, leaving one dead and eight others injured.

The incident unfolded in Chaloet subdistrict last Thursday as residents scrambled to move their belongings to higher ground amid worsening flood conditions. While attempting to escape the rising water, eight individuals were electrocuted inside a residence in Tha Pracha subdistrict. Continued …

Elderly Woman Found Alive in Coffin at Her Funeral in Nonthaburi

An elderly woman was discovered alive just before her cremation at Wat Rat Prakong Tham in Nonthaburi yesterday. Relatives had brought her from Phitsanulok, believing she had died the previous night. Staff at the temple were shocked to find her moving and breathing normally when the coffin was opened.

The woman had been pronounced dead in Phitsanulok and her body was transported by her family in a coffin on a vehicle for cremation. She had previously pledged to donate her body, but the receiving hospital had not collected it. Upon arrival at Wat Rat Prakong Tham, temple staff checked the coffin and confirmed that she was still alive, able to move her arms and legs. Continued …

Wild Elephant Kills One, Injures Three in Sa Kaeo Forest Attack

A wild elephant has killed one villager and left three others seriously injured after attacking a group of eucalyptus loggers in Phra Prong subdistrict, Sa Kaeo, early yesterday.

Six residents had gone into a community forest plantation to cut eucalyptus when the elephant suddenly entered the plot and charged at them as they paused for breakfast. Three workers were critically injured while others fled and alerted local leaders for urgent assistance. Continued …

Bangkok prison denies claim female inmates forced into sex services

Following the scandal over alleged VIP treatment for Chinese inmates, Bangkok Remand Prison (BRP) is facing new accusations claiming female inmates were forced to provide sex services to male inmates and guards. The prison denied the allegations.

Officers from the Department of Corrections’ special unit raided BRP on Nov. 16 after Thai prisoners complained that Chinese inmates were living in unusually comfortable conditions. The foreign inmates were allegedly housed in a separate VIP room equipped with electric appliances, were allowed to smoke, and had access to sex services in a hidden room. Continued …

Jeeno Thitikul sets LPGA season record while winning Tour Championship

World No. 1 Jeeno Thitikul had a pedestrian — by her standards — 4-under-par 68 at the CME Group Tour Championship, but it was more than enough for her to set an LPGA record and coast to victory yesterday in Naples, Fla.

Thitikul had built a six-stroke lead on the field coming into the day and finished the final round four strokes ahead of Thai countrywoman Pajaree Anannarukarn. Continued …

Thai economy faces potential recession, with growth under 1%

Anusorn Thammajai, dean of the Faculty of Economics and Director of the Center for Economic, Digital Investment, and International Trade Research at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, has expressed concerns about Thailand’s economic outlook.

He anticipates that the economy may expand by less than 1% in the fourth quarter, with a risk of negative GDP growth compared to the previous quarter. When viewed quarter-on-quarter, the GDP contracted by 0.6%. If the fourth quarter also experiences negative growth compared to the preceding quarter, it would indicate a technical recession. Continued …

Tariff talks turn trickier

Separating US tariffs from the Thai-Cambodian border dispute is like “rainfall without flash floods in Bangkok”.

Chulalongkorn University political science professor Siripan Nogsuan Sawasdee fashioned that simile when she was asked during a Thai PBS TV program whether it is possible to treat the two issues separately, as the US Trade Representative vowed not to proceed with tariff negotiations with Thailand after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the suspension of the Thai-Cambodian peace accord, brokered by Washington and Kuala Lumpur on Oct. 26. Continued …

Real estate developers demand urgent measures

Real estate developers have reiterated their calls for the government to expedite financial and tax relief measures, noting the sector is on track to record its lowest growth in two decades.

According to Issara Boonyoung, chairman of the real estate development committee of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, all key indicators in the real estate market this year are at their lowest levels in several years. Continued …

Bank of Thailand chief wants weaker baht

Bank of Thailand Gov. Vitai Ratanakorn said on Saturday that a weaker baht would be beneficial for the economy, and that there was room to cut interest rates if needed to support growth.

The baht has gained about 6% against the US dollar so far this year, becoming Asia’s second-best performing currency. The baht’s strength has posed a threat to exports and tourism. Continued …

Thai–Lao trade hits 24-billion baht

Bilateral trade between Thailand and Laos has expanded 8.8%, reaching 24 billion baht, supported by rapid growth in the Lao e-commerce market and improved cross-border logistics via the China–Laos high-speed railway, according to Danun Supatpan, president of Thailand Post.

Citing Ministry of Commerce data for September, Danun noted that the surge in trade value aligns with the sharp rise in online shopping and cash-on-delivery (COD) services in Laos. This growth has increased the importance of efficient logistics networks and payment systems in supporting long-term economic development between the two countries. Continued …

How an Independent Tourism Board Could Attract Millions More Tourists

Thailand’s tourism industry, once a global leader in attracting visitors, is facing growing challenges that demand urgent action. With competitors like Vietnam and Singapore stepping up their tourism development, it is clear that Thailand needs a radical shift in strategy. An independent tourism board dedicated to driving innovation, evaluating new products, and securing investment is essential to the country’s recovery and future growth.

Bold moves are required to elevate Thailand’s appeal by creating diverse attractions, from modern theme parks to high-end integrated resorts. The proposal aims to help Thailand maintain its charm while adapting to global tourism trends. By adopting a commercial approach, this initiative could steer Thailand back to its pre-pandemic tourism heights. Continued …

Thai Tourism Giants Report Surge in Profits Amid Chinese Slump

Major publicly listed Thai tourism businesses have successfully navigated a significant slowdown in international arrivals during the first nine months of 2025, transforming the market challenge into widespread profit.

Despite overall foreign tourist arrivals hitting 24 million—a 7% decline year-on-year, largely due to a sharp 35% drop in Chinese visitors — leading airlines and hotel groups reported strong financial results. Continued …

Tourism operators seek emphasis on wellness tourism

As the government promotes the wellness and medical tourism segment, the private sector is calling for eased regulations and a focus on well-being to position Thailand as a top destination for these services.

Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), said wellness and medical tourism aligns with the government’s goal of increasing tourism spending and persuading guests to stay longer. Continued …

Phuket Clamps Down on ‘Visa Runners’ with New Measures

Phuket is stepping up visa checks to prevent abuse by “visa runners”. Immigration officials are scrutinizing tourists’ entry intentions more stringently, aiming to catch those exploiting the system for long-term stays without proper justification. Travelers with unclear plans may face denial of entry or deportation.

The initiative aligns with a nationwide effort to crack down on visa misuse, targeting individuals using visa-free entries improperly. Chief Kriangkrai Ariyaying, of Phuket immigration, emphasized the importance of ensuring visitors are genuine. Airport staff will now verify travel plans and financial status to confirm legitimacy. Continued …

More than 1,000 tourists stranded at Hat Yai airport, hotels

More than 1,000 tourists were stranded at Hat Yai airport and hotels in Hat Yai district yesterday due to severe flooding. The Tourism and Sports Minister said around 1,000 travelers were unable to leave the airport due to severe flooding that made travel to the city center difficult.

Airport management has been providing stranded travelers with food, drinking water, toothpaste, toothbrushes, first-aid supplies, and other necessities, he said. Continued …

Weird and wonderful Thai laws you probably never knew existed

Every country has its own set of quirks when it comes to rules and regulations, and Thailand is no exception. While many laws are designed to keep order, protect citizens, or preserve national identity, some stand out for being unexpectedly unusual and surprisingly fascinating.

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From half-value banknotes to claiming land simply by living on it, here are some of the strangest Thai laws you probably never knew existed. Continued …

Bangkok ranks among the world’s best shopping cities

The world’s shopping capitals have shifted. For years, Paris stood as the ultimate dream destination, Tokyo offered cultural escapes paired with light retail therapy, Seoul drew travelers seeking aesthetic perfection, and Singapore promised refined dining and fresh air.

But the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for shopping confirm that this landscape has changed dramatically. Of the world’s top 10 shopping destinations, half are now in East and Southeast Asia, a clear sign that the future of global retail has already arrived, fueled by beauty labs, mega-malls, and vibrant night markets. Continued …

Toxic mines put Southeast Asia’s rivers, people at risk, study says

For most of her life, 59-year-old farmer Tip Kamlue has irrigated her fields in northern Thailand with the waters of the Kok River, which flows down from neighboring Myanmar before joining with the Mekong River that cuts through Southeast Asia.

But since April, after authorities warned residents to stop using the Kok’s water because of concerns over contamination, Tip has been using groundwater to grow pumpkins, garlic, sweet corn, and okra. Continued …

River test reveals arsenic

The Pollution Control Department (PCD) has detected arsenic contamination above safety limits at all 13 monitoring points along the Salween River in Mae Hong Son, following reports of unusually cloudy water.

Laboratory tests showed arsenic levels exceeding the standard of 0.01 milligrams per liter at every site. Lead contamination above the 0.05 mg/L limit was found at one location, while mercury levels were within safety limits. Continued …

  • Visitor fed wristband to turtle, faces arrest – Continued …
  • Six Chinese Nationals Arrested Over Overstay Violations – Continued …
  • Ukrainian Investors Probed in Luxury Villa Project on Koh Phangan – Continued …

Malaysia says it plans to ban social media for under-16s from 2026

Malaysia plans to ban social media for users under the age of 16 starting from next year, joining a growing list of countries choosing to limit access to digital platforms due to concerns about child safety. Continued …

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Wednesday’s news-Nov 19

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Beach-cleaning time in Hua Hin/Wild elephant raids Hua Hin house/Matching Hua Hin Homes to Lifestyles/Senior Living Resort opens in Pran Buri/Five Native Cats National Pet Treasures/6 days of heavy rain

  • ECONOMY: Thailand’s 30 Best Workplaces/Thailand may lose US trade deal
  • TOURISM: Modernize for tourists/Tourist arrivals reach 28.27 million/New tourism stimulus plans/Thailand promotes festivals
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Tourist’s Guide to the SEA Games
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: E-bikes slow to take off
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Beach-cleaning time in Hua Hin

Hua Hin City Municipality has stepped up beach cleaning after monsoon winds pushed large amounts of debris ashore along the coastline. Municipal officials said the increased beach cleaning is essential during the northeast monsoon, when stronger winds and rougher seas carry plastic waste, wood scraps, coconuts and natural debris onto the sand.

Additional staff from the Public Health and Environment Division have been deployed since Monday to clear affected areas, with teams focusing on heavily used stretches of Hua Hin Beach. Continued …

Hungry wild elephant raids Hua Hin house for midnight snack of noodles and rice

A hungry wild elephant raided a house while looking for food. The jumbo emerged from a nearby forest before ransacking the roadside restaurant in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province in the early hours of Monday morning. CCTV footage shows the jumbo walking over to the eatery, wandering inside, and smashing kitchenware as it grabbed some rice and noodles from the shelves.

The tusker was seen tucking into the midnight meal before leaving the property in shambles. The frustrated owner who lives next to the restaurant in Hua Hin district, said it was the third time the same elephant had raided her shop. She said: ‘The elephant destroyed a gas cylinder and took packs of noodles and rice. It has caused so much damage to our shop. ‘This was the third time this year that the same elephant raided my shop.” Video …

Matching Hua Hin Homes to 4 Key Lifestyles

Hua Hin offers a diversity of living environments, from bustling seaside to tranquil mountain retreats. For prospective property buyers seeking a vacation home, retirement haven, or investment, the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming.

Focusing on the property alone is often a mistake; the right approach is finding a home that perfectly facilitates your desired life. Such expertise goes beyond simple transactions, matching your unique rhythm of life to the perfect patch of paradise in Hua Hin, ensuring your new home genuinely enhances your quality of life. Continued …

Blue Lotus Active Senior Living Resort opens in Pran Buri

The Blue Lotus Senior Living Campus in Pranburi has opened for longer-stay guests. Some 38 apartments across eight hectares of seafront gardens at the Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas have been fully refurbished by Blue Lotus Wellbeing to provide supported living for elderly guests staying 30 days or longer.

The focus at Blue Lotus in Pranburi is on “active senior living”, which places an emphasis on holistic wellbeing. Guests have the option of activities such as daily exercise classes, including tai chi, water aerobics, yoga, as well as cookery classes, plus nearby golf, hiking, and sailing. Or simple relaxation in a full-service resort setting. Continued …

Cabinet Declares Five Native Cats National Pet Treasures

Thailand has officially designated five native cat breeds as national pets, a move aimed at strengthening cultural identity, safeguarding genetic lines and promoting the country’s soft power.

The Cabinet’s approval marks a significant step in asserting Thailand’s ownership of its feline heritage and preventing the misclassification of these breeds abroad. The decision is expected to boost preservation efforts and support economic activity linked to breeding, tourism, and exports. Continued …

Southern Thailand to face 6 days of heavy rain, 8 provinces at risk

The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) issued an urgent alert yesterday warning that southern Thailand is set to face six consecutive days of heavy to very heavy rainfall from through Sunday.

Joint assessments by ONWR, the Thai Meteorological Department, and the Hydro-Informatics Institute show that rainfall will intensify due to a fairly strong northeast monsoon covering the upper Gulf of Thailand and the upper south, combined with easterly wind waves moving across the region. Wind and wave conditions in both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are also expected to strengthen. Continued …

Thailand’s 30 Best Workplaces

The Great Place To Work institute has unveiled its list of the 30 Best Workplaces in Thailand for 2025. The rankings, segmented by company size, are based on a rigorous assessment of employee sentiment using the globally recognized Trust Index survey.

The evaluation criteria prioritize establishing an organizational culture underpinned by trust in leadership, pride in one’s contribution, and strong colleague relationships. Continued …

Thailand may lose US trade deal unless the government acts fast to restore Peace Pact

Business leaders in Bangkok are growing alarmed after Thailand’s trade negotiations with the United States were suspended on Friday. They flatly reject government claims that talks are still continuing and warn that the deal secured on Aug.1 could be lost for good without immediate action.

Executives say the pause comes just as Washington had become more open to improved terms. Now, unless the situation shifts fast, Thailand risks being shut out of its key export market, losing further U.S. investment and watching Western confidence evaporate. Continued …

Thailand’s moment of truth: modernize for tourists or keep patching potholes

As geopolitical winds shift across Asia, Thailand finds itself once again eyeing a profitable opening: the possibility of absorbing Chinese tourists redirected from Japan after Beijing’s unprecedented travel warning. But beneath the optimistic headlines and official photo-ops, Thailand’s readiness to handle a sudden surge of Chinese arrivals remains deeply questionable — and the country knows it.

For years, Thailand has relied heavily on Chinese outbound tourism to prop up its service sector and urban economies. Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai still feel the aftershocks of China’s years-long border closure, and hotels and tour operators are hungry for a rebound. Now, with political tensions pushing Chinese travelers away from Japan, Thailand sees what looks like a strategic gift. Continued …

Tourist arrivals to Thailand reach 28.27 million

Thailand welcomed 28,277,276 foreign tourists between Jan. 1 and Nov. 16, according to the latest update from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Arrivals fell 7.18% year-on-year, but generated approximately 1.308 trillion baht in revenue.

Top 5 foreign markets (Jan 1 – Nov 16, 2025): Malaysia – 4,058,169, China – 3,946,225, India – 2,110,469, Russia – 1,527,800, South Korea – 1,339,604. Continued …

New tourism stimulus plans proposed

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will ask the cabinet to approve more stimulus measures, including a travel co-payment scheme dubbed “Tour Thai Khon La Khrueng” and more free domestic flights for foreign visitors.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul acknowledged the proposals during a meeting yesterday with representatives from five tourism associations, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Tourism and Sports Minister Artthakorn Sirilatthayakorn. Continued …

Thailand promotes festivals to global audiences with new campaign

Thailand has launched the “Spice Up Thai Fest” campaign to encourage international travelers to engage with the country’s festival calendar.

Led by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), and supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Department of International Trade Promotion and Thai Airways International, the initiative uses the Thai restaurant global network to highlight 14 aspects of Thai culture across key international markets. Continued …

A Tourist’s Guide to the SEA Games 2025 Host Provinces

The 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in December are set to mark a historic first for Thailand: a spectacular sporting event split across a triumvirate of dynamic host provinces. From the electrifying energy of the capital to the sun-drenched beaches of the east, and the tranquil, cultural charms of the south, the games offer a compeling reason to explore three vastly different sides of the Kingdom of Thailand.

This multi-city approach — combining Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Songkhla — transforms the biennial competition into an unforgettable travel experience. Visitors arriving to cheer on their national heroes won’t just witness world-class athleticism; they’ll embark on a journey that blends ancient tradition, cosmopolitan flair, and stunning natural beauty. Continued …

Why e-bikes remain slow to take off

Thailand registers an average of 1.7 million new motorcycles each year and is the world’s fifth-largest producer, with more than 80% of output sold domestically. This underscores the strength and scale of the domestic market, which should, in principle, be capable of supporting the shift toward electric motorcycles.

Yet, despite substantial government incentives and growing momentum in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, electric motorcycles have not experienced the same level of adoption as electric cars. Continued …

  • Police Raid Pattaya House, 15 Indian Overstayers Found – Continued …
  • Foreigners Sought in Phuket Shoplifting Incidents – Continued …
  • Austrian Man Arrested in Phuket for Long Visa Overstay – Continued …

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Thursday’s news-Nov 13

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Thailand launches visa-run crackdown/Australians swap Sydney for Hua Hin/Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin expansion/Jazz Festival postponed/Vintage Car Parade returns/Review new Alcohol Control Act/Thai, Cambodian Troops Exchange Fire/Dams near full capacity/Three Wild Elephants Electrocuted

  • ECONOMY: Boon for food delivery giants/Government unveils 20 economic measures/Trade strategy gains ground/Businesses oppose new industry rules/Forefront of social commerce trend/Halal exports reach US$8 billion
  • TOURISM: Tourism faces intense competition/Wellness tourism next economic growth engine/Pattaya’s High Season Hit/Fined for Allegedly Overcharging
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Nan: Woven from many hands
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Bangkok hit by severe PM2.5 pollution/EGAT Accelerates Hydro-Floating Solar/DayOne to use power from floating solar/Oil forecaster’s dramatic shift
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS 

Thailand launches visa-run crackdown

 

Thailand has launched a visa-run crackdown targeting foreigners who repeatedly enter the country on visa-free stays, tightening checks on travelers suspected of using the system to work illegally or engage in cybercrime and other offenses.

Immigration Bureau commanders nationwide have been instructed to increase scrutiny of foreign nationals whose repeated in-and-out travel under the visa-exemption scheme is considered inconsistent with ordinary tourism. Continued …

Australians swap Sydney prices for luxury Thai villa in Hua Hin

Australians who can’t afford to buy a house in their home country are looking closely at overseas alternatives. As Australia’s home price medians creep up up to $949,000 in capital cities and beyond $1.2m in Sydney, according to PropTrack data, it’s easy to understand why many are abandoning Australia to find their dream home elsewhere.

One couple have done just that, moving their life from Australia to Thailand, and are now showing Aussies how property prices compare. The couple has settled in Thailand after struggling to afford to buy a property in Australia. The couple moved to Hua Hin, which they said said they had never heard of until they moved there around two years ago. They said it was more affordable compared to Phucket or Ko Samui and you could get amazing properties between $450,000-$800,000. Continued …

Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin expansion set for completion in early 2026

Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin is entering a new phase of growth with a major expansion project designed to enhance medical services and meet rising healthcare demand in the region. The development, led by newly appointed Hospital Director Dr. Asawin “Pete” Puwatanasan, marks a significant milestone for Hua Hin’s most established private hospital.

The centerpiece of this transformation is the construction of Building B, a new facility scheduled for completion in early 2026. Once finished, the expansion will add 50 inpatient rooms and a range of upgraded specialist departments, including the Heart Center, Gastrointestinal Center, Health Check-up Unit, Internal Medicine, and Skin Services. Continued …

Hua Hin Jazz Festival postponed to Dec 19-20

The Hua Hin Jazz Festival 2025 has been postponed to Dec. 19-20. The festival was originally scheduled for Nov. 28-29.

Organizers said that ollowing the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, several parties expressed concern about whether it would be appropriate to proceed with the festival as planned this month. Continued …

Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade returns Dec 19-21

The Vintage Car Club of Thailand, in collaboration with Dusit Thani Hua Hin, has announced the 23rd Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade, under the concept “The Charm of Yesteryear… A Seaside Town with Local Color.” The event will take place from Dec. 19-21 at Dusit Thani Hua Hin, Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province.

According to Khwanchai Paphatphong, president of the Vintage Car Club of Thailand, “The Phetchaburi–Hua Hin Vintage Car Parade has now reached its 23rd year, and for the first time, the name of Phetchaburi has been added to the event. The format will be adjusted to better suit current circumstances.” Continued …

Tourism and business groups urge government to review new Alcohol Control Act

Representatives from Thailand’s tourism and service industries gathered at Government House to submit a petition to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urging the government to review the Alcohol Control Act (No. 2) B.E. 2568, which came into effect on Nov. 8.

The petition calls for the government to abolish the prohibition on “drinking outside permitted hours”, introduced under the amended law, which allows extended sales hours but forbids sitting and drinking after the permitted period, with fines up to 10,000 baht for violations. Continued …

Thai, Cambodian Troops Exchange Fire in Border Clash

Thai and Cambodian soldiers briefly exchanged gunfire along the border in Sa Kaeo province yesterday afternoon, in an incident that lasted around 10 minutes and left one Cambodian civilian reportedly dead. Thai troops fired warning shots in response to small arms fire from the Cambodian side at Ban Nong Ya Kaew, Khok Sung district, with the situation later calming down. No Thai casualties were reported.

Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvari, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, said that Thai soldiers acted strictly in line with military engagement rules, taking cover and returning warning fire only to neutralize the threat. Continued …

Four major Chao Phraya Basin dams near full capacity

The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) reported that water levels at four major dams in the Chao Phraya River Basin – Bhumibol, Sirikit, Kwae Noi Bamrung Dan, and Pa Sak Jolasid – have reached nearly 100% capacity, prompting authorities to continue controled water discharges to prevent flooding. Water levels in the Chao Phraya River at Nakhon Sawan and Chai Nat remain high but are still below the riverbanks.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department warned of unstable weather in the coming days, with rain and cool morning temperatures in upper Thailand and a strong new cold front expected to arrive soon. Continued …

Three Wild Elephants Electrocuted in Chanthaburi Fruit Orchard

Three wild elephants died after being electrocuted in a fruit orchard in Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi, prompting urgent investigations and legal action. The incident has raised concerns among local authorities and communities about elephant safety and illegal electricity hazards.

The first case occurred on Tuesday night when a rapid-response elephant monitoring team received a report from a village headman The elephant, a male named “Phlai Muan”, aged about 30 years and weighing approximately 5–6 tons, was found dead, believed to have suffered a severe electric shock. Continued …

Co-pay boon for food delivery giants

Grab reports receiving more than 1 million orders under the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme, while Line Man Wongnai has recorded 2 million orders.

Users started using this scheme for online food delivery on Nov. 7. As of Nov. 11, 19.8 million out of 20 million participants in the scheme successfully spent a total of 31.8 billion baht, according to the Finance Ministry. Continued … 

Government unveils 20 economic measures before House dissolution

According to sources from the Government House, the government has outlined a detailed timeline for rolling out key economic measures through 20 major projects between October and January, in preparation for the anticipated dissolution of the House of Representatives and upcoming elections.

At a recent Economic Cabinet meeting, the government reviewed the progress of these initiatives, with nine projects already approved, while 11 others are in the pipeline for future consideration. Continued …

‘US Plus One’ trade strategy gains ground

Amid US-China trade tensions, third countries such as Japan or ASEAN members are embracing a so-called “US Plus One” business strategy, diversifying partners and taking advantage of tariff gaps to expand exports and strengthen economic resilience despite Trump-era uncertainties.

Prof. Fukunari Kimura, president of the Institute of Developing Economies at the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and professor emeritus of Keio University, said, “For companies in third countries, it is often difficult to predict what trade policies the US will actually implement. Although things have calmed somewhat recently, this is far from over.” Continued …

Thai businesses oppose new industry rules

The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has urged lawmakers to reconsider three draft bills it says could harm Thailand’s fragile economy.

The proposed legislation, covering labor protection, clean air, and factory operations, is intended to safeguard workers and the environment, but business leaders warn it may impose heavy costs and undermine investor confidence. Continued …

Thailand at the forefront of social commerce trend

Thailand continues to be a global leader in social commerce, with platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram heavily utilized for live-selling, product discovery, and driving e-commerce transactions.

These trends are included in the “Digital 2026: Thailand” report jointly developed by Meltwater and We Are Social, and a recent analysis by DataReportal/Kepios. As of late 2025, there were 56.6 million active social media user identities in Thailand, or roughly 79.1% of the population. Continued …

Thailand’s halal exports reach US$8 billion

Thailand’s halal exports are valued at US$8.85 billion, accounting for only 1.6% of the global halal market. With immense growth potential, there’s room for significant expansion. A seminar where the economic direction of Thailand was discussed, a major focus was the halal industry, identified as a key driver of Thailand’s economic future.

According to the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE), an OIE study shows halal is no longer limited to food but encompasses a wide range of products and services such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals, clothing, medical tools, herbal products, supplements, animal feed, packaging, as well as tourism and transportation. Continued …

Thailand’s tourism faces intense competition in Asia’s Tourism War

The Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) says Thailand’s tourism industry is under heavy pressure from the “Tourism War” in Asia, with declining tourist numbers and low spending, contrary to the growth of its competitors in the region who are seeing over 10% growth. Many countries have adjusted their strategies to make tourism a central engine for economic growth, urging Thailand to revamp its tourism approach to attract global visitors.

The SCB EIC notes that the global economic slowdown and high uncertainty have led many Asian countries to place greater focus on tourism. As a result, a policy competition has intensified, with countries like Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, and China competing for tourists. Continued …

Wellness tourism called Thailand’s next economic growth engine

Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), has identified wellness tourism as one of Thailand’s most promising new economic engines, boosting tourist spending and lengthening average stays for international visitors.

Bhummikitti explained that wellness tourism is divided into two categories: Primary wellness tourism — where travelers visit specifically for health and wellness purposes such as spa retreats, detox programs, and rehabilitation; and secondary wellness tourism — where travelers incorporate health-related activities such as yoga, healthy dining, and light sports into general trips. Continued …

Pattaya’s High Season Hit by Outdated Bars, Booze Rules

As Pattaya enters its peak tourist season, visitors are greeted with the familiar frustration of stagnant business offerings. Despite a rise in tourist numbers and increased hotel occupancy, many massage shops, beer bars, and nightlife venues struggle to keep up due to outdated practices and confusing regulations.

Tourism demand is strong, with long-term visitors and Western tourists significantly contributing to the local economy. However, venues often remain stuck in the aesthetics and layouts of the 1990s, offering decor that fails to impress international visitors. Additionally, prices have risen to reflect 2025 standards, leading to customer dissatisfaction when service and ambiance do not match these costs. Continued …

Floating Market Vendor Fined for Allegedly Overcharging

A Thai vendor at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi province has been fined 2,000 baht after allegedly overcharging two South Korean YouTubers. The fine was imposed by the Ratchaburi Provincial Commercial Affairs Office after footage of the transaction went viral, sparking debate about tourist price gouging in popular destinations.

In the video, the YouTube influencers were seen traveling by long-tail boat along the Damnoen Saduak Canal before stopping at a riverside shop. They purchased a white dragon-embroidered shirt and a pair of elephant-patterned trousers, initially quoted at 600 and 400 baht, respectively. After negotiating, they paid a total of 900 baht, a price many Thai viewers criticized as excessive compared to typical online prices of 100–200 baht for the trousers and 200–400 baht for similar shirts. Continued …

Nan: Woven from many hands

Recognized by UNESCO as Thailand’s latest Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, Nan Province is part of a global network that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage as engines for a thriving and beautiful way of life. Yet, long before UNESCO’s recognition, creativity had already been demonstrated through Nan’s temples, looms, and rivers.

Isolated in the misty mountain valleys along the Lao border, Nan Province feels a long way from Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and elsewhere. But this isolation doesn’t mean disconnection. Continued …

Bangkok hit by severe PM2.5 pollution, with levels exceeding safety limits

PM2.5 levels in Bangkok have soared to dangerous levels, with 12 districts experiencing hazardous air quality.

PM2.5 levels in Bangkok yesterday reached an average of 32.4 µg/m³, with areas like Bueng Kum and Lat Krabang reporting the highest levels of 46.9 µg/m³ and 46.5 µg/m³, respectively. These levels are well above the standard limit of 37.5 µg/m³, indicating significant health risks for the general population. Continued …

EGAT Accelerates Hydro-Floating Solar Hybrid Projects

Thailand’s Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is advancing its renewable energy ambitions by integrating solar and hydropower technologies through hydro-floating solar hybrid projects, with the goal of achieving 2,725 megawatts (MW) of clean energy generation by 2030.

Implemented under the Ministry of Energy’s “Quick Big Win” policy, the initiative combines the strengths of sunlight and water to deliver continuous, sustainable electricity, while optimizing the use of the nation’s reservoirs. Continued …

DayOne to expand Thailand data center, use power from floating solar

APAC data center company DayOne plans to expand its data center in Thailand. The company plans to eventually scale the Chonburi Tech Park (CTP) campus to 1GW, having broken ground on the first facility this March with 180MW of grid capacity.

DayOne also entered into a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Amata B.Grimm Renewable Energy Co. (Ambre). Ambre will supply renewable electricity generated by a 22kV floating-solar facility, with an initial capacity of 42.5MWp within the Amata City Chonburi estate, starting in 2027. Continued …

Oil forecaster makes dramatic shift

Global oil and gas demand could grow until 2050, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said yesterday, in a dramatic departure from its previous forecast of a speedy transition to cleaner fuels that would result in oil demand peaking before 2030.

The revised forecast in the World Energy Outlook 2025 reflects the Paris-based group’s belief that the world will likely fail to achieve climate goals. And while electric vehicles could account for 90% of the Chinese market by 2035, the figure in the United States will be only 15%. Continued …

Chinese cybercrime boss She Zhijiang extradited to China

Alleged Chinese online scam boss She Zhijiang, who is accused of operating more than 200 online gambling websites and networks in Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar’s Shwe Kokko scam city, was extradited to China yesterday. Continued …

  • Chinese Interpol Fugitive Arrested at Khon Kaen Condominium – Continued …
  • Foreign hacker wanted by FBI arrested in Phuket hotel – Continued …
  • Foreigner steals motorbike in Phuket after petting dog – Continued …

Japan looks to triple departure tax to 3,000 yen to combat overtourism

The Japanese government and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party are looking to triple the departure tax to 3,000 yen (630 baht) per person to fund measures against issues from a surge in inbound tourism, sources familiar with the matter said yesterday. Continued …

US presses final penny after more than 230 years

The United States pressed its final circulating penny yesterday, in a move made to save money as the one-cent coin denomination became less relevant over time. The last coin was struck in Philadelphia by US Treasurer Brandon Beach, officially ending the circulating penny’s 232-year production run. Continued …

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Wednesday’s news-Nov 5

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To bring down drug costs/Alert issued for insurance buyers/Typhoon Kalmaegi to bring heavy rain/Miss Universe 2025 in Turmoil/Grandmother hits lottery jackpot/ECONOMY: Thailand’s housing market faces uncertainty/State Railway given lifeline/TOURISM: Thailand’s Foreign Tourist Numbers Drop/Loy Krathong to generate 6.54 billion/Etihad Flight to Chiang Mai/CLIMATE THAILAND: DHL Supply Chain Thailand solar Logistics Center/Climate-fighting efforts have ‘barely moved the needle/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Government and hospitals act to bring down drug costs

A new agreement between the Thai government and private hospitals aims to reduce living costs by 32 billion baht by promoting transparency in drug pricing and giving consumers more options when purchasing medications.

The “Happy Body, Happy Wallet” initiative aims to empower patients to purchase medicines outside hospitals, which may encourage them to utilize the services of private hospitals and ease the burden on public facilities. Continued …

Alert issued for insurance buyers from unlicensed firms

The Thai Life Assurance Assn. (TLAA) has issued a warning to the public against purchasing life or health insurance policies from unlicensed foreign entities operating online. The association said buyers have no legal protection under Thai law, while sellers could face serious criminal penalties.

According to TLAA President Nusara Banyatpiyaphod, consumers are urged to exercise extreme caution when purchasing insurance via online platforms or digital channels that promote policies from foreign entities not authorized to operate in Thailand. Continued …

Typhoon Kalmaegi to bring heavy rain, floods

Heavy rain and floods are possible in the northeast, the east, the Central Plains, and the north from Friday to Sunday due to the influence of incoming Typhoon Kalmaegi, warns the Meteorological Department.

Sugunyanee Yavinchan, director-general of the department, said that Typhoon Kalmaegi was located in the South China Sea at 4am today and would reach central Vietnam tomorrow or Friday before weakening into a tropical storm and a depression. Continued … 

Miss Universe 2025 in Turmoil as Host Clashes with Owner

The 74th Miss Universe pageant, hosted in Thailand, has descended into chaos after a public feud erupted between local organizer Nawat Itsaragrisil and the global Miss Universe Organization (MUO). The dispute has led to police involvement, accusations of misconduct and a contestant walkout, overshadowing one of the world’s most prominent beauty pageants just three days after delegates arrived.

The conflict began when Nawat launched a “Special Dinner” campaign inviting fans to vote via “Likes” for contestants to dine with him and reigning Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjær Theilvig. MUO, co-owned by Raul Rocha Cantu, quickly denounced the event as unauthorized and accused Nawat of infringing on intellectual property rights. Nawat rejected the claims, insisting the activity had been pre-approved under his hosting contract and accusing MUO of misrepresentation. Continued …

Maha Sarakham grandmother hits 12-million-baht lottery jackpot

A grandmother from Maha Sarakham, northeast Thailand, won 12 million baht after matching two first-prize lottery tickets, sparking celebration among her delighted family.

The lucky winner, from Borabue district in Maha Sarakham province, hit the jackpot on Nov. 1 after matching two first prize tickets in the latest government lottery draw. The winning number was 345898, netting her 6 million baht per ticket. Continued …

Thailand’s housing market faces uncertainty, new housing sales expected to decline

The Thai housing market is facing a significant slowdown, with high household debt and diminished purchasing power contributing to weaker demand. The Real Estate Information Center (REIC) has reported record levels of unsold housing stock, reaching 2 trillion baht, as the market grapples with economic uncertainty.

The forecast for 2025-2026 indicates a decline in new housing sales. In 2025, 74,544 units are expected to be sold, a drop of 31.2%, with a total value of 472.3 billion baht, down 38.6%. In 2026, the market will see a slight recovery, with sales reaching 75,000 units, a modest increase of 0.6%, and a value of 487.5 billion baht, up 3.2%. Continued …

State Railway of Thailand given Bt18-billion lifeline

The cabinet has approved a Ministry of Transport proposal to allow the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to borrow 18 billion baht in the 2026 fiscal year to cover operating expenses amid continuing financial losses.

The ministry made the proposal after the SRT reported insufficient revenue to meet its operating costs. The funding would provide liquidity and allow the agency to continue to operate smoothly throughout fiscal 2026, which started on Oct. 1. Continued …

Thailand’s Foreign Tourist Numbers Drop 7.2% This Year

Foreign tourist arrivals in Thailand from Jan. 1 to Nov. 2 have decreased by 7.2% compared to the same period last year, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry. The total number of foreign visitors during this period was reported at 26.89 million. Malaysia emerged as the largest source market with 3.88 million visitors, closely followed by China, contributing 3.8 million.

This downturn comes as the Ministry of Finance revised its forecast for foreign tourist arrivals this year to 33.5 million, down from the previously estimated 34.5 million. For context, in 2019, Thailand attracted nearly 40 million visitors before the onset of the Covid pandemic. Continued …

Loy Krathong to generate 6.54 billion baht in tourism revenue

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) predicts that the 2025 Loy Krathong Festival will see 1.91 million domestic trips, generating 6.54 billion baht in revenue.

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT governor, stated that the average hotel occupancy rate during the festival is expected to be 65%, with 41% of bookings made by Thai tourists. Continued …

Etihad Launches First Direct Flight from Abu Dhabi to Chiang Mai

Etihad Airways has officially launched its inaugural direct service between Abu Dhabi and Chiang Mai, marking a major milestone in strengthening northern Thailand’s connectivity with the Middle East and Europe. The first flight, EY426, arrived at Chiang Mai International Airport at 6:30 am yesterday.

Passengers on the first flight were greeted by Chiang Mai Deputy Gov. Weeraphong Ritrod and TAT Deputy Governor for Policy and Planning Chuwit Siriwechakul, who presented them with traditional Lanna-style elephant pants and elephant keychains as souvenirs, showcasing the region’s cultural identity. Continued …

DHL Sjpply Chain launches solar-powered logistics center

DHL Supply Chain Thailand has officially launched the Bangna Sustainable Logistics Center, the first DHL Supply Chain facility globally to be fully powered by renewable energy via on-site solar systems.

This 1.39-billion-baht (€35 million) investment underscores DHL Supply Chain’s commitment to sustainable logistics and to serving Thailand’s growing role in sustainable trade, proving that sustainability is profitable and vital for resilience amid volatile global trade tensions. Continued … 

Climate-fighting efforts have ‘barely moved the needle,’ UN report finds

All nations of the world had homework this year: submit new-and-improved plans to fight climate change. But the plans they handed in “have barely moved the needle” on reducing Earth’s future warming, a new United Nations report finds. A good chunk of that progress is counteracted by the United States’ withdrawal from the effort, the report adds.

The newest climate-fighting plans — mandated every five years by the 2015 Paris Agreement — shaves about three tenths of a degree Celsius (nearly six tenths of a degree Fahrenheit) off a warming future compared with the projections a year ago. Continued …

British Woman Arrested for Teaching “Sex Yoga” on Koh Phangan – Continued …

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Monday’s news-Nov 3

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Loy Krathong Festival to Proceed/Crime suppression operation for Loy Krathong/Hua Hin World Cup/Moon x Moonlight Party/New Year Holiday now 5-Day Break/Gold card healthcare ‘on the brink’/Welfare cardholders get cash boost/Tropical storm to bring more rain/Thailand Secures MotoGP Hosting Rights/Elephant Kills Mentally Ill Man/Rising southern violence/M81 motorway bans motorcycles/Vietnam food beats Thailand/ECONOMY: Thailand’s Bt3.45-Trillion Property Waste/Tariff deal still being negotiated/Shippers push for balanced trade deal/Co-payment figures at odds/Bailout to Tackle Household Debt/Thailand’s Return to Global Stage/Auto industry faces rising global competition/TOURISM: Full Moon Party Axed/TAT targets 8.45 million European visitors/Slump in Chinese arrivals/Nakhon Phanom tourism/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS 

Loy Krathong Festival to Proceed Across Thailand, But With Solemn Tone

The Thai government has confirmed that the ancient Loy Krathong festival will take place as scheduled this year, but with a request that organizers ensure all celebrations maintain a respectful and solemn atmosphere.

Airin Phanrit, deputy spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, announced that no nationwide ban has been imposed on the festival, which falls on Wednesday. However, communities are being asked to scale back overtly festive activities, such as live music and elaborate light-and-sound shows. Continued …

Police launch crime suppression operation for Loy Krathong

The Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Police have launched a large-scale crime suppression operation to ensure public safety during Halloween and the Loy Krathong Festival 2025.

A ceremony at Hua Hin Clock Tower marked the official start of enhanced law enforcement efforts aimed at protecting residents and tourists throughout the province during the festive period. Continued …

Hua Hin World Cup set for Dec 13-14

The Hua Hin World Cup 2025, one of Thailand’s most popular amateur football tournaments, will take place Dec. 13-14 and is expected to draw hundreds of visitors to the city. Now in its 13th year, the event is forecast to generate between 4 million and 5 million baht for the local economy and further strengthen Hua Hin’s reputation as a destination for sports, wellness, and recreation.

Organized by the Viking Club Hua Hin, the two-day tournament will feature more than 250 players from Thailand and abroad, competing on FIFA-standard 7-a-side grass pitches at the new Arena Hua Hin Soccer Pitch Branch 2. Continued … 

Moon x Moonlight Party at Hua Don Beach on Dec 6

The To the Moon x Moonlight Party will be held on Hua Don Beach in Khao Takiab on Dec. , transforming the beachfront into a lively dance arena from 4 pm to midnight.

The party will feature a line-up of well-known Thai and international DJs, each bringing their unique sound to the stage. Early evening sets will start with DJ Leebreee, followed by DJ Plearnplreng, and DJ Ben.G. As the sun sets, DJ Uccello and DJ Sunday will keep the crowd moving, leading into the headline performances by DJ Evan Pierin, DJ Roxy June & MC Lexize, and DJ Chilee & MC. Continued … 

Thailand Adds Jan 2, 2026, to New Year Holiday for 5-Day Break

Thailand’s Cabinet has declared Jan. 2, 2026, a special holiday, turning the New Year break into a five-day festivity. This move aims to give people extra time to celebrate and plan their holidays. The decision aligns with a previous government resolution to add more holidays for 2025 and 2026.

The announcement was originally made under Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s leadership and recently confirmed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. With the extension now official, there’s excitement in the air as travel agencies and businesses anticipate increased activity and economic benefits. Continued …

Gold card health care scheme ‘on the brink’, experts warn

The controversy over funding the 30-baht universal healthcare scheme has exposed a stark reality: Thailand’s healthcare system may be teetering on the brink of financial collapse.

In recent months, a war of words between the National Health Security Office (NSHO) and the director of privately owned Mongkutwattana Hospital has given the public a glimpse into how the universal healthcare scheme is run. Continued …

Thai welfare cardholders get year-end cash boost from November

The Thai government will grant state welfare cardholders an extra 1,700 baht over two months to ease living costs and boost year-end economic activity.

Starting last Saturday, over 13.4 million welfare cardholders across Thailand will receive an additional 1,700 baht in total, spread over two months. The new measure was confirmed by government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat following a Cabinet resolution aimed at increasing purchasing power and stimulating the economy. Continued …

Tropical storm to bring days more rain

Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a fresh weather alert today, warning of heavy rainfall across 34 provinces. Bangkok and surrounding areas are set to bear the brunt, with 70% of the capital expected to be hit by thunderstorms and isolated heavy rain.

On the east coast of the south, 60% of the region will be hit by thunderstorms, with heavy rain expected in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will fall to between 23 and 25°C in the early morning and climb to 30 to 34°C in the afternoon. Westerly winds will blow at 15 to 30 km/h. Continued …

Thailand Secures MotoGP Hosting Rights Through 2031

Thailand has confirmed a five-year extension with Dorna Sports to host the MotoGP World Championship until 2031, the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) announced. SAT Gov. Gongsak Yodmani said the renewal will be submitted to the cabinet for approval tomorrow, ensuring the country remains a leading venue for international motorcycle racing.

Since its debut at Buriram’s Chang International Circuit in 2018, the Thailand Grand Prix has gained recognition for its high standards and lively atmosphere. Sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), MotoGP is considered the pinnacle of international motorcycle racing. The event has become a key part of Thailand’s sports tourism policy, highlighting its capability to host global sporting events. Continued …

Wild Elephant Attack Kills Mentally Ill Man in Rubber Plantation

A 52-year-old man with a mental health condition was killed by a wild elephant in a rubber plantation in Chachoengsao Province early yesterday morning. The victim was found unconscious and covered in blood at around 3 am local time and later died despite being rushed to hospital.

According to local officials, villagers alerted the village headman after discovering the injured man. Rescue teams responded to the scene and confirmed signs of a wild elephant attack, including traces suggesting the victim had been dragged and struck against rubber trees. Continued …

Senate ‘alarmed’ by rising southern violence

The Senate Committee on Military and National Security has raised alarm over the surge in violent incidents across the southern border provinces, allegedly orchestrated by the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) militant group.

Committee spokesman Chaiyong Maneerungsakul yesterday highlighted the latest string of attacks across Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, which he said suggested an escalation of violence across the nation’s southernmost provinces. Continued …

New M81 motorway bans bikes, motorcycles, tractors

Thailand’s Royal Gazette has issued a new directive banning several types of vehicles from using the new Motorway Route 81 (M81), which connects Bang Yai in Nonthaburi to Kanchanaburi.

The announcement, signed by the Director of Special Highways, was made under Section 54 of the Highways Act 1992 and came into effect on Oct. 31. The regulation prohibits the following vehicle types from entering the M81 motorway: Continued …

Vietnam beats Thailand, Malaysia as Asia’s best culinary destination

Vietnam has outperformed regional neighbors such as Thailand and Malaysia to be named Asia’s best culinary destination at this year’s World Culinary Awards. The awards honor Vietnam in two other categories.

Hanoi was named “Asia’s best emerging culinary city destination”, while Capella Hanoi was voted “world’s best brunch venue,” the organizing board announced at a recent ceremony in Italy. Continued …

Thailand’s Bt3.45-Trillion Property Waste: 1.6 Million Homes Empty

A staggering 1.64 million homes across Thailand lie empty, creating a huge economic waste valued at 3.45 trillion baht. This figure nearly equals the nation’s yearly budget, according to a Thai Real Estate Research and Valuation Center (AREA) survey. The “ghost housing” crisis is most severe in Bangkok, with more than 730,000 vacant units largely due to aggressive market speculation.

The issue is particularly acute in the condominium market, where the vacancy rate stands at a significant 24.8%. Condominiums make up 58% of all empty homes in Bangkok, with low-cost units especially vulnerable. Condos priced under 500,000 baht have a 21.1% vacancy rate, often leading to quick deterioration due to insufficient maintenance fee collection. Continued … 

Thailand-US tariff deal still being negotiated

The negotiations between Thailand and the US on reciprocal tariffs advanced with the recent announcement of a joint statement on a framework for the agreement on reciprocal trade. The statement is not legally binding, but serves as a guideline for future consultations.

While both nations must work hard on further negotiations of technical details to meet their goal of finalizing a deal by year-end, pundits and industry professionals voiced several concerns about issues Thailand must negotiate carefully to ensure fair trade and protect the interests of its domestic industries. Continued …

Shippers push for balanced trade deal

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) supports deeper cooperation between Thailand and the US under a reciprocal trade framework and urges the government to prioritize the country’s interests during the negotiations process.

Dhanakorn Kasetrsuwan, chairman of the TNSC, said it is essential such cooperation be pursued on a balanced, transparent, and sustainable basis, protecting Thailand’s trade interests, industrial competitiveness, and long-term economic security. Continued …

Co-payment spending figures at odds

The government is being urged to recruit more shops to join the Khon La Khrueng Plus co-payment scheme, as spending on its first day was disappointing, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

However, the government has taken a different view, with spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat reporting robust economic activity, with total spending reaching 1.9 billion baht. Thanavath Phonvichai, the UTCC president, said government data indicated eligible Thais spent an average of only 250 baht each, totaling 750 million baht from 3 million participants on the first day. Continued …

Government Proposes Bt20-Billion Bailout to Tackle Small-Scale  usehold Debt

The Thai government is set to take a decisive step in tackling the nation’s severe household debt crisis, with a proposal to use a 20-billion-baht state fund to buy up small-scale non-performing loans (NPLs).

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas confirmed that the Ministry of Finance will present the debt resolution scheme to the Economic Cabinet today, before seeking final approval from the main Cabinet. Continued …

Commerce Minister Vows Return to Global Stage After ASEAN and APEC Wins

Thailand Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has announced a successful diplomatic push, declaring that the country has re-established its presence on the world trade stage following a series of high-level meetings at the ASEAN Summit and the APEC forum.

Speaking after returning from Gyeongju, South Korea, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and a multi-ministerial delegation, Suphajee emphasized the urgent need for new global alliances in light of shifting geopolitical and economic power dynamics. Continued …

Thai auto industry faces rising global competition and regulatory pressures

Kasikorn Research Center has warned that U.S. import tariffs, aggressive expansion by Chinese automakers, and tighter environmental and safety standards among trade partners are challenging the competitiveness of Thailand’s automotive industry, requiring urgent adaptation.

Dr. Rujipan Assarat, assistant managing director at Kasikorn Research Center, noted that while Thailand exports a relatively small portion of vehicles to the U.S., Section 232 import tariffs could indirectly affect Thai auto exports worldwide. Major producers from Japan and South Korea may redirect exports to other markets to reduce reliance on the U.S., intensifying global competition. Continued … 

Full Moon Party Axed in Thailand Amid National Mourning

The popular full moon party on Koh Phangan’s Haad Rin Beach, scheduled for Nov. 5, has been canceled. This decision follows the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit. In honor of her legacy, Thailand is now in a national mourning period, resulting in a halt to significant public gatherings.

The event organizers have confirmed the cancellation, stating, “The full moon party will not take place this month.” The Jungle Experience event, originally set for Nov. 4, has also been called off. Meanwhile, the traditional Loy Krathong celebrations are still on, but they will reflect cultural and respectful practices during this mourning period. Continued …

TAT targets 8.45 million European visitors through airline deals, soft power

Suladda Sarutilavan, director for Europe at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed that European arrivals to Thailand have continued to grow steadily. Between Jan. 1 and Sept. 14 Thailand welcomed 5.48 million European tourists, marking a 14% increase year-on-year. Tourism revenue has risen at a similar rate, with long-haul travelers spending an average of 64,000 baht per trip.

Major European markets continue to perform well: arrivals from Germany grew by 12.4%, France by 17.1%, the United Kingdom by 14.7%, and Russia by 10.4%. Promising growth was also recorded in emerging markets such as Turkey (+23%) and Poland (+30%). Continued …

Slump in Chinese arrivals drags foreign tourist numbers to 32 million

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has warned that a decline in Chinese tourists could drag Thailand’s total foreign arrivals this year down to 32 million, below the government’s target.

ATTA President Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn said the top five source markets for Thailand in 2025 are projected as follows: Continued …

Nakhon Phanom tourism takes off

Nakhon Phanom Airport is recording its highest passenger numbers in two decades, reflecting the northeastern province’s rapid rise as a tourism and economic hub.

This year, from January until the annual Lai Ruea Fai (illuminated boat procession) festival in October, more than three million tourists visited the province, double last year’s figure, according to local authorities. Continued …

  • Israeli Man Wanted for Armed Robbery Arrested in Koh Samui – Continued …
  • Nine Chinese Men Arrested With 48 Phones, Suspected Scammers – Continued …
  • Chinese National Arrested Over Illegal Crypto Exchange – Continued …
  • Australian Arrested for Shoplifting in Phuket – Continued …

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Friday’s news-Oct 31

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Kaeng Krachan Land Grab/Charn Issara Development’s Cha-am project/Bus crashes in Hua Hin/Super Full Moon on Loy Krathong/Heavy rain forecast/Man Trampled to Death by Wild Elephant/Firms suspected in money-laundering scams/Michelin Guide Thailand 2026/ECONOMY: Call for longer leases/PM asks for ‘better’ trade deal/Thailand’s rare-earth elements/Thailand’s automotive and auto parts industry/Thai Kun Circuit’s New Factory/TOURISM: Sustainable growth in Thai tourism/Are Thai resorts and hotels overcharging?/Top Countries for Affordable Medical Tourism/Pattaya 8th Worst for Pickpockets and Scams/Virgin Atlantic To Begin London–Phuket (HKT) Service/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: ‘We left UK for Thailand/Eco Travel Guide to Thailand/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand unites to fight PM2.5/China and green progress in Asia/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Forest Taskforce Probes Kaeng Krachan Land Grab

A special taskforce from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) has launched an investigation into alleged forest encroachment and destruction in Kaeng Krachan National Park and adjacent state land in Hua Hin district, Prachuap Khiri Khan. The probe follows reports that investors have cleared forested hillsides and excavated soil in protected zones.

The taskforce is examining claims of land ownership under Nor Sor 3 Kor documents allegedly covering 3,162 rai — 2,016 rai of state property and 1,146 rai within the national park. Investigators found new evidence of encroachment beyond these documents, totaling 914 rai, 81 rai within the park and 833 rai of state land. The area shows extensive soil removal, hill excavation, and unauthorized blockage of public waterways. Continued …

A look at Charn Issara Development’s Cha-am project

Charn Issara Development’s Hua Hin developments continue to redefine Thailand’s luxury coastal living, expanding from Bangkok’s skyline to the shores of Hua Hin and Cha-am.

When CEO Songkran Issara reflects on his family’s roots in Cha-am, the story goes beyond property development. He recalls how the company’s first project in the area — Jindarak — was named after his wife’s great-grandfather, a former governor of Phetchaburi and a survivor of a WWII torpedo attack in the North Sea. Continued …

Bus crashes in Hua Hin, 8 students injured

Eight student cadets were injured when a Hua Hin–Pranburi route bus skidded on a rain-soaked road and crashed into a power pole while descending Khao Dang Pass yesterday. Police have charged the driver with reckless driving and damaging government property.

The accident occurred at around 6 pm. Police at Hua Hin Police Station received a report of a crash near the downhill section of Khao Dang Pass on the Hua Hin–Nong Phlab Road. Rescue teams from the Sawang Hua Hin Foundation were dispatched to the scene. Continued …

Super Full Moon to Grace Loy Krathong Night

Thailand will experience a spectacular celestial event on Nov. 5, coinciding with the Loy Krathong festival. The Super Full Moon, the closest the moon will be to Earth this year, will be visible in the sky.

The moon will be only 356,966 kilometers away from Earth, appearing larger and brighter than usual. This astronomical phenomenon occurs due to the moon’s elliptical orbit, reaching its nearest point, or perigee, with an average distance of 357,000 kilometers from Earth. Loy Krathong participants can enjoy the visual treat as the moon rises at around 5:30 pm and remains visible throughout the night. Continued …

Heavy rain forecast across Thailand as low-pressure system strengthens

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) reported today that an active low-pressure cell covering the upper Gulf of Thailand is drawing moisture-laden easterly winds into the upper part of the country, while a weak high-pressure system lingers over northern areas. The confluence of easterly and southeasterly winds across the north is expected to bring increased rainfall, including isolated heavy showers in several regions.

Scattered thundershowers and isolated heavy rain are forecast in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chumphon. Minimum temperature 23-25 °C. Maximum temperature 29-34 °C. Continued … 

Man Trampled to Death by Wild Elephant in Phu Wua Forest

A 55-year-old man was found dead after being attacked by a wild elephant in the Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary in Bueng Kan province. The discovery followed a three-day search after the man was reported missing by his relatives.

Authorities believe he encountered the elephant at close range while collecting forest produce and was trampled to death. Preliminary examinations indicated that the man sustained fatal injuries consistent with being attacked by a wild elephant. His body was discovered deep within the sanctuary where he had been foraging for forest products. Continued …

Seven listed firms suspected of involvement in Khmer-based, money-laundering scams

The House Committee on Money-Laundering & Drugs Suppression confirmed yesterday that seven listed firms on the Stock Exchange of Thailand have been reportedly suspected of being involved in money-laundering activities of the transnational rogue scammers and that representatives of those firms will be summoned to testify over the issue.

The committee chair declined to identify the suspected firms currently listed in the stock market or say how soon their executive officials or representatives will be summoned for testimony before his panel at parliament. Continued …

Michelin Guide Thailand 2026 Selection To Be Unveiled Nov 27

Culinary stars are set to dazzle at the Michelin Guide Ceremony Thailand 2026, officially scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 27 − marking the announcement of the highly anticipated full restaurant selection at the press conference and the celebration of Thailand’s talented culinary community.

The Bib Gourmand selection will be revealed a week prior to the award ceremony. This latest edition covers Bangkok and surrounding provinces, Phuket and Phang-Nga, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Isan (Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, and Khon Kaen), Koh Samui and Surat Thani, and Chon Buri. Continued …

Call for longer leases to boost home ownership

Three real estate associations have asked the next government to extend the lease period for residential properties from 30 years to 60 years, as a new generation of potential homebuyers can no longer afford to purchase them.

Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the Thai Condominium Assn., said extending the leasehold period would enable tenants to obtain mortgages covering up to 100% of the property value, compared with the current 60%-70%. Continued …

PM asks Trump for ‘better’ trade deal

Thailand has asked US President Donald Trump for a “better” trade deal as the two countries press ahead with tariff talks, following the signing of a peace agreement between Bangkok and Phnom Penh.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul made a direct plea to Trump during an informal chat after a dinner with other leaders at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit late Wednesday in South Korea, according to a Thai government statement. Continued … 

Where are Thailand’s rare-earth elements that US seeks found?

Amid the international focus on rare-earth elements (REE), with the US rapidly rebuilding its supply chain in a move to end decades of dependence on China as tensions between the two powers persist despite a temporary trade truce, there is strong public interest about this within Thailand.

According to the Department of Mineral Resources, rare earths are extremely rare elements used as crucial upstream raw materials in the production processes of various high-tech industries, both current and future, such as metal alloys, catalyst and chemical process in automotive and petrochemical industries, ceramics/glass industry, phosphors with examples being LED bulbs, fluorescent lamps and flat-panel displays, rechargeable solid-state batteries (Ni-MH), fiber optics, and more. Continued …

Thailand’s automotive and auto parts industry is facing multiple major challenges

The Kasikorn Research Center says Thailand’s automotive industry must brace for US import tariff measures, intensifying competition from Chinese automakers, and seek more stringent environmental and safety standards of trading partners, all of which pose challenges to the industry’s long-term adaptation and competitiveness.

Dr. Rujipun Assarut, KResearch assistant managing director, said, “Although Thailand’s automobile exports to the US account for a small share, the US import tariff measure under Section 232 is likely to indirectly affect Thai car exports to global markets. This is because major producers such as Japan and South Korea may diversify their exports to other markets to reduce reliance on the US, thereby intensifying global competition. Concurrently, the may directly hurt Thailand’s auto parts measure exports to the US, which account for around 26 percent of the total value of Thai auto parts exports.” Continued …

Thai Kun Circuit Expands PCB Manufacturing with New Factory

Thai Kun Circuit has broken ground on a new factory at 304 Industrial Park in Prachinburi as part of its plan to expand production capacity and strengthen its position in the global electronics supply chain.

The facility will enable Thai Kun Circuit to meet rising demand for high-precision, double-sided, and multilayer PCBs across key sectors, including automotive electronics, industrial and safety control systems, consumer electronics, and communications. The investment underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to advancing technology, enhancing product quality and increasing R&D capabilities. Continued …

5 proposals offered for sustainable growth in Thai tourism

Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party and former prime minister, delivered a keynote address on “Tourism and the Future of Thailand” at the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) meeting yesterdy.

He painted a grim picture of Thailand’s economic situation, which has stagnated for over a decade. With growth currently at 2% annually — among the lowest in the region — he warned that economic improvement and a better quality of life for Thai people will remain unattainable unless the country breaks free from its slow-growth cycle. Continued …

Are Thai resorts and hotels overcharging tourists?

The post-pandemic world has witnessed a significant resurgence in global tourism, with Southeast Asia being one of the regions that have seen a rapid rebound in visitors. However, this revival of the tourism sector has also brought to light concerning practices in the luxury hotel industry in countries like Thailand and Vietnam.

Allegations of overcharging, inflated prices, and declining service standards are making headlines as these destinations continue to attract international travelers. With the rise in travel costs and the diminishing quality of service, the question arises: are luxury hotels in these countries exploiting tourists to maximize profits, or is this a natural consequence of the tourism industry’s post-pandemic recovery? Continued …

Top Countries for Affordable Medical Tourism

As healthcare costs continue to rise across many  Western nations, more and more patients are opting for treatment abroad — the process of traveling internationally to receive medical care, often at substantially lower cost· With the aid of platforms like the AiroMedical platform, patients can compare options, coordinate logistics, and find accredited providers·

Here we shine a spotlight on the leading destinations for affordable medical tourism in 2025-2026, highlighting their strengths, typical savings, and things to consider· Continued …

Pattaya Ranks 8th Worst Globally for Pickpockets and Scams

Pattaya has been identified as the eighth worst city globally for pickpocketing and scams, according to a report by Compare the Market, a U.K.-based insurance price comparison site. The city scored 44.43 out of 100 points, with about 3.1 scam mentions per 1,000 visitor reviews. Visitors are particularly advised to be cautious in street vendor areas and nightlife districts.

This ranking comes as part of a study analyzing over 75 cities worldwide based on the frequency of theft and scam mentions in tourist reviews. The report highlighted Pattaya’s vibrant party atmosphere as a magnet for opportunists. Notably, street vendors and nightlife hotspots are common places where travelers often report security concerns. Continued …

Virgin Atlantic To Begin London–Phuket (HKT) Service Next October

Virgin Atlantic is launching new services between London Heathrow and Phuket for winter 2026. The three times a week service will operate from Oct. 18, 2026, capturing the growing demand for luxury winter escapes.

As the only direct route from London Heathrow to Phuket, travelers will now be able to enjoy a seamless journey to one of Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations. Customers will be able to book package holidays with Virgin Atlantic Holidays from Oct. 30, 2025, with prices starting from £999 per person. Flights will also be available to book from Nov. 26, 2025, on virginatlantic.com. Continued …

‘We left UK for Thailand after feeling burnt out – now we save £1k a month on rent’

A British couple who felt “burnt out” by a poor work-life balance in the UK have now relocated to Thailand, saving themselves £1,000 a month in rent and paying just £2.76 for their water bills. Roshni Ward, 30, and her fiancé Louis Hunt, 33, began contemplating a move overseas after growing “fed up” with life in the UK, citing rising crime rates and the dreary weather as key factors.

The pair, who previously rented a flat in Rye, East Sussex, were working gruelling 11-hour days, as well as overtime, leaving them feeling exhausted and burnt out. In search of a slower pace of life, they made the decision to move to Chiang Mai in September. Continued …

The Eco Travel Guide to Thailand

Thailand is no longer just a destination of tropical fantasia; it has evolved into a place where refined luxury intersects with environmental and cultural consciousness. From Bangkok’s green-inflected skyscrapers to Chiang Mai’s regenerative lodges and the sequestered beaches of the south, travelers who demand comfort and meaning are finding both.

Landing in Bangkok means entering a metropolis of high energy and even higher possibilities for sustainable luxury. Here, daytime can be devoted to temple visits via electric tuk-tuks, rooftop dinners where the produce is sourced from regional farmers, and conversations about how luxury hospitality in Bangkok is embracing water recycling and solar technology. Continued … 

Thailand unites to fight PM2.5 as smog season looms

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s Pollution Control Department, in collaboration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Automotive Industry Group of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), is moving forward with efforts to tackle the small dust particle (PM2.5) issue during the end-of-year season.

This initiative, driven by the “Green List Plus: Fight Dust, Reduce PM2.5” project, was announced Wednesday and aims to promote public participation in reducing pollution from various sources and to stimulate cooperation from the business sector through incentive measures. Continued …

China and green progress in Asia

For the past two decades, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, has been reshaping the Asia-Pacific’s approach to growth. Since the 2011 Honolulu Leaders’ Declaration, APEC has placed “green growth” at the heart of its agenda, showing progress and environmental sustainability don’t have to be at odds.

Energy lies at the core of this transformation. As the foundation of both economic expansion and environmental protection, improving energy efficiency has become central to APEC’s collective commitments. Continued …

Trump shaves China tariffs after Xi meeting

US  esident Donald Trump said yesterday he had agreed with Chinese President Xi Jinping to trim tariffs on China in exchange for Beijing cracking down on the illicit fentanyl trade, resuming US soybean purchases, and keeping rare earths exports flowing. Continued …

King Charles III Strips Prince Andrew of Titles and Evicts Him from Royal Residence

King Charles III yesterday stripped his disgraced brother Prince Andrew of his remaining titles and evicted him from his royal residence after weeks of pressure to act over his relationship with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Buckingham Palace said. Continued …

5 More Arrests as Louvre Jewel Heist Probe Deepens

The dragnet tightened around the Louvre thieves yesterday. Five more people were seized in the crown-jewels heist — including a suspect tied by DNA — the Paris prosecutor said, widening the sweep across the capital and its suburbs. Continued …

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Thursday’s news-Oct 23

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Flood warning for Prachuap Khiri Khan/Alcohol sales ban may be lifted/Loy Krathong celebrations in Hua Hin/Communication cables to be reorganized/Legend Fighting Championships at Bluport/Inside bottled water/Thailand Bans All Card Games/Cambodian scams threaten Thai government/Scams allegedly involve Thai politicians/Too close for comfort/Myanmar raids on scam syndicates/Starlink rigs disabled in Myanmar/Thailand and Cambodia to sign peace pact/Bolt rider and passenger killed after phone distraction/ECONOMY: BOT forecasts 1.6% growth in 2026/Stimulus drives GDP growth in Q4/Car sales expected to top last year/Durian Gold Rush/TOURISM: Over 250 airlines for winter schedule/Outrigger retreat on Phi Phi/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: The Karen highlands of Thailand/CLIMATE THAILAND: American e-waste in Southeast Asia/China’s SUS Leads Thailand’s Waste-to-Energy Market/Panasonic Thailand Using Solar-Plus-Storage Solution/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/HUA HIN LINKS

Flood warning issued for Prachuap Khiri Khan

The Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command has issued a warning for flash floods, forest runoffs, and flooding across all areas of Prachuap Khiri Khan between Oct. 23-26.

Authorities are urging residents to remain alert and monitor weather updates closely as widespread heavy rain continues to affect the province. Areas prone to flooding, particularly those near hillsides, rivers, and low-lying zones, are advised to take extra precautions. Continued …

Afternoon alcohol sales ban may be lifted in January

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has directed government agencies to lift restrictions on alcohol sales and extend nightlife operating hours, in a move expected to boost state revenue by hundreds of billions of baht. The proposal includes abolishing the current zoning system for alcohol sales and allowing entertainment venues to stay open until 4 am.

Anutin instructed the Interior Ministry (MOI) and the Public Health Ministry (MOPH) to work together on revising regulations to permit alcohol sales across the country without zoning limitations. The initiative also aims to relax the nationwide alcohol sales ban between 2 pm and 5 pm,, with implementation targeted for January. Continued …

More details released about Loy Krathong celebrations in Hua Hin

Hua Hin City Municipality has announced further details for this year’s Loy Krathong Festival, which will take placeNov. 4-5 under the theme “Naresdamri Reminiscence… Beside the Waves… Under the Full Moon.” The event will be held along Naresdamri Road, in the historic Seaside Community, one of Hua Hin’s oldest neighborhoods.

The municipality aims to revive the traditional charm of the Seaside Community by transforming the area into the main venue for this year’s celebrations. Naresdamri Road will be decorated with festive lights and cultural displays for 10 days, from Nov. 1-10, creating a vibrant waterfront atmosphere. Continued …

Communication cables to be reorganized across key areas of Hua Hin

Communication cables in several major areas of Hua Hin are set to be reorganized between November and December, following a recent meeting led by local authorities and utility providers.

The move comes after the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) Hua Hin branch received numerous complaints from residents about tangled or hanging cables that pose safety hazards and affect the appearance of the city. Continued …

Legend Fighting Championships returns to Bluport on Saturday

Legend Fighting Championships 2025 returns to Bluport Hua Hin this Saturday with a seven-bout card featuring Thai and international fighters across Muay Thai Kard Chuek and gloved Muay Thai.

The event will take place at the Hua Hin Convention Center on the first floor of Bluport Hua Hin, with the first bell at 6 p.m. on Saturday. Doors open at 4pm. Entry is free. Continued …

What’s really inside the bottled water we drink?

When we reach for a bottle of mineral water, it often feels like we’re making a healthier choice, certainly cleaner than tap water. But while the water itself may be pure, the packaging, which involves plastic, tells a different story.

A new study finds that bottled mineral water is far from pristine: each sip may contain microscopic plastic particles invisible to the naked eye. These particles can enter the body, bypass its defenses, and potentially lodge in vital organs. Continued …

Thailand Bans All Poker, Card Game Permits Nationwide

In a move reflecting Thailand’s hardline stance on gambling, the Ministry of Interior has announced the immediate ban on permits for all poker and card games. The directive overturns a prior directive from July, halting all current and potential approvals for gambling-related card activities.

This announcement follows Anutin’s promise to Parliament committing to a stringent crackdown on illegal gambling activities. The government’s position is firm: there will be no legalization of gambling or the creation of gambling-inclusive entertainment venues. This initiative specifically targets poker, a popular sport. Continued …

Cambodian scam center mess in Thailand threatens to topple interim government

The Cambodian scam center crisis is fast threatening Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s new interim government. esterday, firebrand People’s Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn warned of a no-confidence motion, while Anutin himself earlier threatened to dissolve the House at will.

The turmoil deepened as Deputy Finance Minister Woraphak Thanyawong quit and a Cambodian senator was found with Bt70 million frozen in Thailand, despite tycoon Ly Yong Phat’s long presence on the U.S. sanctions list. Wiroj says Hun Sen is preparing to expose Thailand’s elite just as he helped topple Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government this summer. Continued …

DSI to probe scams allegedly involving politicians

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) will set up a special committee to investigate all major scam-related cases nationwide, says Justice Minister Rutthapon Naowarat.

The committee will cover allegations linking certain Thai politicians to scam operations and the relationship between Prince International Co. and Prince Group, a conglomerate led by Chen Zhi, a Chinese-Cambodian businessman blacklisted by the United States. Continued …

Scam scandal draws too close for comfort

Vorapak Tanyawong was hailed as a reliable and trusted financial guru by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul when he brought him in from the private sector to help run the economy as deputy finance minister. Vorapak had a good reputation and has worked in public office before, serving as an adviser to then-finance minister Pichai Chunhavajira in the Paetongtarn Shinawatra government.

So, he must have been aware of the potential pitfalls when Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas told reporters earlier this month his deputy would lead a task force to follow the money trail left by scam centers across Southeast Asia. Continued …

KK Park in Myawaddy

Myanmar launches second wave of raids on scam syndicates

According to reports, Myanmar troops have launched a major crackdown on transnational scam operations in Myawaddy’s notorious KK Park project, long controled by Chinese investors and the Border Guard Force (BGF).

The operation began on Oct. 16, when Myanmar soldiers surrounded KK Park, known as a hub for online fraud and human-trafficking syndicates, and arrested more than 2,198 men and women. Over 30 Starlink satellite devices were seized. The raid followed the military’s earlier seizure of the nearby New Lay Kay Kaw area. Continued …

2,500 scammer-linked Starlink rigs disabled in Myanmar

SpaceX says it has cut service to more than 2,500 Starlink devices at Myanmar scam centers, in response to reports that their use by crime gangs for satellite internet service had soared.

Starlink has come from nowhere to become the war-torn country’s biggest internet provider in three months, recent data from the Asian regional internet registry APNIC shows. Continued …

Thailand and Cambodia to sign peace pact at ASEAN Summit

Thailand and Cambodia plan to sign a declaration at a regional summit to ease border tensions and boost cooperation on security and territorial issues.

Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow revealed that both nations are expected to officially sign the Declaration of Thai-Cambodian Relations during the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, held from Oct. 25-28. The agreement is poised to signal a major diplomatic breakthrough. Continued …

Bolt rider and passenger killed in motorcycle crash after phone distraction

A Thai Bolt rider crashed into an electricity pole on a road in Bang Na, Bangkok, Tuesday, after focusing on a map on his mobile phone, leading to the deaths of himself and his passenger.

Officers from Bang Na Police Station received a report of a fatal motorcycle accident near the entrance of Soi Bang Na-Trat 16 on Bang Na-Trat Road. At the crash site, officers found the bodies of two people lying on the left lane of the three-lane road. Continued … 

BOT forecasts 1.6% growth in 2026 amid export slump and strong baht pressure

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has warned that the Thai economy is set to expand by only 1.6% in 2026, following a projected 2.2% growth in 2025, as exports slow and the strong baht weighs on tourism.

The forecast, presented at the Monetary Policy Forum, reflected rising risks from US trade tariffs and weakening global demand. While Thailand’s GDP grew 3% in the first half of 2025, the BOT expects sharp deceleration in the second half — 1.5% growth in Q3 and 1.3% in Q4. Continued …

BoT predicts stimulus drives GDP growth in Q4

The Bank of Thailand expects the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme to help drive GDP growth in the final quarter this year. The central bank projects the Thai economy to expand by 0.5% quarter-on-quarter in the fourth quarter this year, recovering from a 0.5% contraction in the previous quarter.

The rebound will largely be supported by the government’s economic stimulus measures, particularly the co-payment program, said Piti Disyatat, deputy governor for monetary stability at the central bank, during the Monetary Policy Forum held yesterday. Continued …

Car sales expected to top last year’s level, BEV sales up 99%

Domestic car sales are expected to increase this year to 600,000 vehicles despite a sluggish auto industry, as electric vehicles (EVs) dominate total sales and sales of oil-fueled cars continue to decline, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

In September, battery EV (BEV) sales soared 99% year-on-year, representing an 18.8% share of all types of car sales, exceeding the proportion of internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered cars (18.7%) for the first time on record, as sales of the latter plunged by 22%. Continued …

Durian Gold Rush: Thailand’s Top Export Rakes in Over 11 Billion Baht

Durian has cemented its position as Thailand’s hero export, with the “Khao Banthat Mon Thong Durian” becoming the country’s highest-earning Geographical Indication (GI) product, generating over 11 billion baht in revenue in the first nine months of 2025.

According to the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP), the success of Thai GI goods reflects their outstanding quality and unique regional characteristics, driving high demand both domestically and abroad. Continued …

Over 250 airlines set for Thailand’s winter schedule

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has confirmed that more than 255 airlines have been allocated flight slots for Thailand’s winter 2025 schedule, running from Oct. 26 to March 28. The allocation, which covers all major airports nationwide, reflects renewed momentum in Thailand’s aviation and tourism sectors despite earlier signs of a slowdown in Chinese arrivals.

According to CAAT, Suvarnabhumi Airport tops the list with 127 airlines, including 21 cargo carriers, followed by Phuket Airport with 68 airlines (one cargo carrier), Chiang Mai Airport with 30, Don Mueang Airport with 17, U-Tapao Airport with 11, and Samui Airport with two airlines. Continued …

Outrigger to launch barefoot-luxury retreat on Phi Phi

Outrigger Hospitality Group is set to unveil its newest beachfront escape — Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort, a five-star sanctuary where southern Thailand’s natural beauty and culture converge.

Opening in early 2026, the reimagined resort marks a defining new chapter for one of the world’s most celebrated island destinations. Set on the northern tip of Thailand’s famed Phi Phi Island, the resort overlooks a secluded white-sand beach framed by swaying palms and the emerald Andaman Sea. Continued …

Forest sanctuaries and spiritual balance in the Karen highlands of Thailand

“Do you hear the birds calling?” asks Noraeri Thungmueangthong, as the vibrant trill of a blue-throated barbet rings through the pine trees looming up ahead. “That’s a sign we’re entering the sacred forest.”

Noraeri is a leader in Huay Ee Khang village, an Indigenous Pgaz K’Nyau Karen community of 125 households nestled between undulating hills in the highlands of northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai province. Within the sanctuary of the forest, she points out a wooden receptacle attached to the trunk of a tree. Continued …

American e-waste is causing a ‘hidden tsunami’ in Southeast Asia

Millions of tons of discarded electronics from the United States are being shipped overseas, much of it to developing countries in Southeast Asia unprepared to safely handle hazardous waste, according to a new report released yesterday by an environmental watchdog.

The Seattle-based Basel Action Network, or BAN, said a two-year investigation found at least 10 U.S. companies exporting used electronics to Asia and the Middle East, in what it says is a “hidden tsunami” of electronic waste. Continued …

China’s SUS Leads Thailand’s Waste-to-Energy Market

Amid the global push to address climate change, waste-to-energy (WtE) has emerged as a critical solution for Thailand’s dual challenges of energy transition and urban waste management. In line with the government’s Q3 development plans, 39 new WtE plants are slated for development, with a total processing capacity of 168,211 tons per day.

Thailand was the first overseas destination for Shanghai SUS Environment Co.. At the time, the market, though nascent, was dominated by established local players. Leveraging technological innovation as its core strength, SUS adopted a long-term strategy – establishing a locally registered entity and setting up representative offices to deepen its presence. Continued …

Panasonic Thailand Facility Using Advanced Solar-Plus-Storage Solution

GoodWe has strengthened its presence in the commercial and industrial sector with the successful deployment of a solar-plus-storage system at Panasonic Energy’s manufacturing facility in Thailand.

The system optimizes TOU tariffs by storing energy during off-peak hours and discharging during high-demand periods, achieving cost savings of approximately 2 baht per kWh while supporting sustainable operations. Continued …

  • Russian-Owned Koh Phangan Rental Firm Raided, 400 Vehicles Seized – Continued …
  • Chinese CEO Arrested at Suvarnabhumi Over Plastic Waste Fraud – Continued …
  • Kuwaiti Arrested in Patong Over Drugs and Visa Overstay – Continued … 
  • Chinese Man Arrested for Illegal Tour Guiding at Wat Phra Kaew – Continued …
  • Myanmar Broker Arrested for Forging Worker Registration Papers – Continued …

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Tuesday’s news-Oct 21

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Petrol, diesel pump prices cut/Bus Terminals to Stay/High-Speed Rail on Brink of Collapse/Belarusian model killed for organs by scammers/ECONOMY: Thai Restaurants ‘Struggling’/Nationwide Discount Drive/Food delivery apps compete/E-Commerce Surpasses Retail Sales/Energy measures to drive down prices/Bt100-billion hit from dispute with Cambodia/Crackdown on Koh Phangan & Koh Samui intensifies/Phuket eyes transport hub status/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Isaan: What is this little-known region?/CLIMATE THAILAND: Communities at risk from Myanmar’s rare earth mines/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Petrol, diesel pump prices cut

The energy minister yesterday ordered a reduction in pump prices of 50 satang per liter for diesel and 30 satang for all kinds of petrol, effective from 5am today.

The price of standard diesel will fall from 31.44 baht to 30.94 baht per liter. Retailers will decide whether to apply the cut to premium diesel. Continued …

Bangkok’s Major Bus Terminals to Stay, Relocation Scrapped

The Ministry of Transport has confirmed that Bangkok’s three main intercity bus terminals – Mo Chit 2, Ekkamai, and Sai Tai – will not relocate to Bang Sue Grand Station as previously considered. Instead, plans focus on enhancing the existing facilities and transport connectivity.

Transport Co. Managing Director, Atthawit Rakchamroon revealed that redevelopment plans for the Mo Chit 2 terminal are advancing. Situated on an 80-rai plot, the project has received a 39-million-baht budget for planning and design, with implementation expected to cost 3.6 billion baht. Continued …

High-Speed Rail Linking Thailand’s Three Airports on Brink of Collapse

Nearly six years after signing the public-private partnership (PPP) contract in October 2019, Thailand’s 224.5-billion-baht ($6.8 billion) high-speed rail project connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports has made virtually no progress. The mega-project, a cornerstone of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), now teeters on the edge of collapse.

Asia Era One Co., which won the bid, has yet to meet the conditions required to obtain a notice to proceed (NTP) from the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the project’s public partner. Development has stalled for nearly two years and 10 months, initially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Continued …

Belarusian model kidnapped from Bangkok, killed for organs by scammers in Myanmar

A young Belarusian model who traveled to Bangkok for a job interview on Sept. 20 was abducted and taken to a scam center in Myanmar where she was murdered and her organs sold, according to media reports.

According to these reports the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the incident involving Vera Kravtsova, 26, and is assisting the family through diplomatic channels. Her mother has reportedly negotiated with the scammers, who agreed to return her ashes without payment. She plans to travel to Myanmar to handle the remains. Continued …

Thai Restaurants ‘Struggling’, Pin Hopes on Government Subsidy Windfall

The Thai restaurant sector is facing a “tired” operational environment in 2025, according to the Thai Restaurant Assn., which is pinning its hopes on the government’s “Khon La Khrueng” (Half-Half) subsidy scheme to generate an economic “whirlwind” and drive growth.

Industry figures confirm that the restaurant business remains a key magnet for attracting footfall to shopping centers, with consumers viewing “eating out” as a personal reward or a special family occasion. Continued …

Commerce Ministry Launches Nationwide Discount Drive to Boost ‘Khon La Khrueng Plus’

The Thai Ministry of Commerce has mobilized over 90 local retail outlets nationwide to participate in a large-scale discount scheme, aiming to maximize the effectiveness of the government’s ‘Khon La Khrueng Plus’ subsidy program.

The nationwide sale, running from Nov. 1-15, will see prices cut by up to 60% on a wide range of essential and consumer goods. Continued …

Online food delivery apps compete over stimulus discounts

Thailand’s online food delivery war is expected to be reignited as Grab has launched new promotional campaigns and offered to cut its gross profit (GP) fee to 7%–9% for merchants in response to the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” co-payment scheme. The company has also spent 200 million baht on its promotional campaigns regarding the scheme.

Meanwhile, Line Man Wongnai has appointed Kanchai Kamnerdploy — a well-known Thai actor and news anchor — as the face of its campaign, and has offered a lower GP fee and spent 200 million baht on its marketing blitz. Continued …

Thailand’s E-Commerce Surpasses Traditional Retail Sales

Thailand’s e-commerce market is experiencing significant growth, even amid the current economic slowdown. Major players like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok are driving an increase in spending, with key sectors such as essential goods, fashion, and cosmetics witnessing substantial sales. The sector is growing at an annual rate of 12%–15% as more consumers turn to digital shopping.

Southeast Asia’s e-commerce landscape has positioned Thailand as one of its largest markets. In 2024-2025, order volumes and gross merchandise value soared, contrasting sharply with a decline in traditional retail. The trend highlights a shift in consumer behavior driven by convenience, price comparisons, and promotional deals. Continued …

New energy measures to drive down prices

The government intends to reduce power prices to ease the cost of living and introduce energy measures for the country’s targeted industries.

Speaking after an economic ministers’ meeting yesterday, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the talks had considered power-related measures under the Energy Ministry’s “Quick Big Win” plan. The aim is to finalize guidelines and implement methods to lower the cost of living for citizens, generate income for local communities, and prepare energy readiness for targeted industries that plan to invest in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand braces for Bt100-billion hit from dispute with Cambodia

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s government predicts losses could total 100 billion baht from disruptions to cross-border trade with Cambodia, after a longstanding territorial dispute erupted into armed conflict earlier this year.

Following the closure of border crossings between the two countries, Thai businesses have lost an estimated 15 billion baht per month, according to minutes of last week’s economic committee meeting. Total losses could reach 100 billion baht if the situation persists through the end of the year, the minutes showed. Continued … 

Crackdown on foreign business abuses, ownership on Koh Phangan & Koh Samui intensifies

The deputy national police chief for Police Region 8, covering Surat Thani, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui, has arrived from Bangkok. Sent by Royal Thai Police headquarters, Pornchai Khajornklin is reinforcing last week’s crackdown, now extended to agencies like the Land Department and the Department of Business Development (DBD).

This move signals an unprecedented top-down enforcement. The rules for doing business on Thailand’s prime investment islands have changed for good. The advantage again returns to local businesspeople and investors. Continued …

Phuket eyes transport hub status

The Transport Ministry is preparing to transform Phuket into the Andaman region’s main transport hub, aiming to make the island a model for logistics and mobility development across southern provinces.

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced the plan yesterday during a high-level meeting to review nine major infrastructure projects worth a combined 130 billion baht. Continued …

Isaan: What is this little-known region of Thailand?

Isaan is the most mysterious, the most unknown, and the largest region in Thailand. Rich in a unique past, this agricultural land is bordered by the Mekong River, which separates it from Laos, and with which it shares a history, culture, and language. Far from the tourist beaches and bustling metropolises, Isaan offers an authentic Thailand with its temples, natural sites, gastronomy, and unique lifestyle. Video …

More Thai rivers and downstream communities at risk from Myanmar’s rare earth mines

New satellite data identified 513 sites of rare-earth mining that have cropped up across at least six key tributaries of the Mekong, Salween, and Irrawaddy rivers in Myanmar over the past 10 years. These include 40 believed to have opened this year alone, with the total marking a dramatic increase from previous estimates and suggesting the risk of transboundary river pollution is significantly higher than once thought.

The new data and analysis from nonprofit think tank the Stimson Center warns that the proliferation of unregulated mining operations in Myanmar, which are already having dire outcomes in northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces, could be worse for the region’s rivers than expected. Continued …

  • Naked Foreigner Causes Chaos at Busy Pattaya Intersection – Continued …
  • Russian Man Arrested for Illegal Vehicle Rentals on Koh Phangan – Continued …
  • Japanese Tourists Accused of Harassing Pattaya Hairdresser – Continued …

AWS outage shakes digital world, sparks debate over cloud reliance

Amazon Web Services (AWS) suffered a major outage that rattled the stability of the digital world, disrupting over 2,000 global companies across sectors from social media and gaming to banking and education. The disruption stemmed from technical issues at the US-EAST-1 data center in Virginia, not a cyberattack. Continued …

Gold surges past $4,300 an ounce

Gold prices surged sharply above $4,300 per ounce yesterday, approaching all-time highs, driven by expectations that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates further and by ongoing demand for safe-haven assets. Investors are also closely watching the upcoming US-China trade negotiations and the release of US inflation data later this week. Continued …

US, Australia sign rare earths deal as Trump promises submarines

US President Donald Trump signed a deal on rare earth minerals yesterday with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and said Washington’s key ally would get its coveted nuclear-powered attack submarines. Continued …

Climate change, population growth threats as malaria fight stalls

The fight against malaria has stalled after two decades of progress, with climate change and population growth among factors threatening a resurgence of the potentially fatal disease, campaigners said today. Insufficient funding for increasingly costly prevention programs risked efforts against the mosquito-borne illness at a cost of hundreds of thousands of lives and billions of dollars, they said. Continued …

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